Imaginary Prisons Collection

The Smoking Fire, c. 1761 (etching)
1066617 The Smoking Fire, c.1761 (etching) by Piranesi, Giovanni Battista (1720-78); 53.6x40 cm; Dallas Museum of Art, Texas, USA; (add.info.: From the Prisons series.); gift of Mrs. A.E

The Drawbridge, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Pier with Chains, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Gothic Arch, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Staircase with Trophies, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Round Tower, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

Prisoners on a Projecting Platform, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Grand Piazza, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Sawhorse, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

Title Page, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Smoking Fire, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Giant Wheel, from Carceri d invenzioni (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Well, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

The Pier with a Lamp, from Carceri d invenzione (Imaginary Prisons), ca. 1749-50

Staircase Trophies Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Sawhorse Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Smoking Fire Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Drawbridge Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Well Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons ca
Artokoloro

Round Tower Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Giant Wheel Carceri d invenzioni Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Pier Chains Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Gothic Arch Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Title Page Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Prisoners Projecting Platform Carceri d invenzione
Artokoloro

Grand Piazza Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Arch Shell Ornament Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

Pier Lamp Carceri d invenzione Imaginary Prisons
Artokoloro

For sale as Licensed Images

Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media

"Unlocking the Depths of Imagination: Exploring the Enigmatic World of Imaginary Prisons" Step into a realm where reality intertwines with fantasy, as depicted in "The Smoking Fire, " an ethereal etching from c. 1761. This captivating artwork is just one piece of Giovanni Battista Piranesi's renowned series, "Carceri d'invenzione" or "Imaginary Prisons. " Transport yourself to a bygone era, ca. 1749-50, when Piranesi's imagination ran wild and gave birth to mesmerizing creations like "The Drawbridge. " Its imposing structure stands tall against a backdrop of mystery and intrigue, leaving viewers pondering the secrets it may hold within. As you continue your journey through these imaginary penitentiaries, encounter "The Pier with Chains, " an enigma that beckons exploration. Its chains symbolize confinement while simultaneously evoking curiosity about what lies beyond its boundaries. Marvel at the intricate design of "The Gothic Arch, " which showcases Piranesi's mastery in capturing both grandeur and desolation. The archway seems to whisper tales of forgotten souls trapped within its confines. "The Arch with a Shell Ornament" offers a glimpse into another dimension altogether—a fusion of elegance and entrapment that leaves observers captivated by its paradoxical beauty. Ascend the spiraling staircase in awe as you behold "The Staircase with Trophies. " Each step tells a story—of triumphs achieved or dreams shattered—within this surreal prison world. Behold the towering presence of "The Round Tower, " an architectural marvel that defies logic and challenges perceptions. It looms over prisoners who are left wondering if escape is even possible from such formidable walls. Witness despair mingled with hope on "Prisoners on a Projecting Platform. " Their precarious perch reflects their longing for freedom amidst their confounding surroundings—an eternal struggle captured in Piranesi's artistry.