The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1771: The Temple of Asclepius
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 40.1 x 55.3 cm (15 13/16 x 21 3/4 in.) sheet: 45.4 x 66.6 cm (17 7/8 x 26 1/4 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Accession Number
1994.56.3
Art Historical Context
This striking etching captures the elaborate temporary structure known as the “Prima Macchina” for the 1771 Chinea festival in Rome. Created by Giuseppe Vasi after designs by Giuseppe Palazzi and architect Paolo Posi, the print depicts a grand Temple of Asclepius, complete with classical columns, statues, and dramatic lighting effects. Such macchine were built each year as centerpieces for fireworks displays during the festival, when the King of Naples offered a white horse to the pope in a centuries-old ceremony blending civic pageantry and religious devotion. Vasi’s precise etching techniqu...