Items Similar to Ariadne Abandoned on Naxos by Theseus: Piroli’s Classical Engraving, 1789
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10
Ariadne Abandoned on Naxos by Theseus: Piroli’s Classical Engraving, 1789
About the Item
The Abandonment of Ariadne on Naxos by Theseus: A Classical Myth Depicted by Tommaso Piroli, 1789
This captivating copperplate engraving, created by the Italian engraver Tommaso Piroli in 1789, depicts the mythological scene of Ariadne abandoned on the island of Naxos by Theseus. The print comes from Piroli’s celebrated work 'Antichita di Ercolano' (Antiquities of Herculaneum), published in Rome. This monumental publication was dedicated to documenting the remarkable archaeological discoveries from Herculaneum and Pompeii, providing detailed engravings of ancient art and artifacts.
The upper part of the engraving portrays the forlorn figure of Ariadne, reclining on a draped rock formation, gazing sorrowfully at the departing ship of Theseus. The vessel, a classical galley with oars and sails, swiftly leaves the shores of Naxos, emphasizing the finality of her abandonment. The rocky landscape and the distant horizon create a dramatic contrast, reinforcing the emotional depth of the scene. Ariadne's flowing robes and graceful posture are masterfully rendered, capturing both her vulnerability and her regal presence as a princess of Crete.
In the lower section, the engraving features an ornamental frieze depicting goats and a classical urn surrounded by garlands. This decorative element highlights the aesthetic influence of ancient Roman and Greek motifs, often present in the decorative arts of the late 18th century. The balanced composition and symmetry of this lower vignette complement the mythological drama above.
Tommaso Piroli was a distinguished engraver renowned for his precise and elegant technique, working closely with prominent artists and scholars of his time. His illustrations for *Antichita di Ercolano* are invaluable as they provide a glimpse into the artistic heritage uncovered during the excavation of the ancient cities buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Piroli’s engravings served not only as artistic reproductions but also as scholarly documentation of classical antiquity.
What makes this engraving particularly fascinating is its combination of mythological storytelling and archaeological context. The portrayal of Ariadne reflects the neoclassical fascination with ancient themes, inspired by both literary sources and material culture uncovered at Herculaneum. The engraving technique showcases fine line work, meticulous shading, and an eye for classical proportions, which were hallmarks of Piroli's craftsmanship.
Condition: The print is in good condition, with crisp lines and minimal foxing typical of works from the late 18th century. The paper is well-preserved, retaining a soft, natural patina that enhances its antique charm.
Framing tips: To properly display this piece, consider framing it with an ornate gilt frame or a classical black and gold combination, along with a cream-colored mat that echoes the print’s neoclassical elegance.
- Dimensions:Height: 11.82 in (30 cm)Width: 8.47 in (21.5 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:Paper,Engraved
- Period:1780-1789
- Date of Manufacture:1789
- Condition:Condition: The print is in good condition, with crisp lines and minimal foxing typical of works from the late 18th century. The paper is well-preserved, retaining a soft, natural patina that enhances its antique charm.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-047531stDibs: LU3054344140362
About the Seller
5.0
Recognized Seller
These prestigious sellers are industry leaders and represent the highest echelon for item quality and design.
Platinum Seller
Premium sellers with a 4.7+ rating and 24-hour response times
Established in 2009
1stDibs seller since 2017
2,417 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: <1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Langweer, Netherlands
- Return Policy
Authenticity Guarantee
In the unlikely event there’s an issue with an item’s authenticity, contact us within 1 year for a full refund. DetailsMoney-Back Guarantee
If your item is not as described, is damaged in transit, or does not arrive, contact us within 7 days for a full refund. Details24-Hour Cancellation
You have a 24-hour grace period in which to reconsider your purchase, with no questions asked.Vetted Professional Sellers
Our world-class sellers must adhere to strict standards for service and quality, maintaining the integrity of our listings.Price-Match Guarantee
If you find that a seller listed the same item for a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.Trusted Global Delivery
Our best-in-class carrier network provides specialized shipping options worldwide, including custom delivery.More From This Seller
View AllRoman Decorative Motifs and Architectural Scenes by Tommaso Piroli, 1789
Located in Langweer, NL
Roman Decorative Motifs and Architectural Scenes by Tommaso Piroli, 1789
This finely executed copperplate engraving by Tommaso Piroli (1750–1824) is part of his renowned series 'A...
Category
Antique 1780s Prints
Materials
Paper
Antique Hand-colored Engraving of the Common Quail by Sepp & Nozeman, 1789
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Tetrao, Coturnix'. This print depicts the common quail with nest and eggs (Dutch: kwartel). The common quail (Coturnix coturnix) or European quail is a small gr...
Category
Antique 18th Century Prints
Materials
Paper
$660 Sale Price
35% Off
Old Engraving of Antiquities found in a Bed of Chalk, Winchester, England, 1789
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Antiquities found in a bed of chalk, near Winchester, 1789'. Antique print depicting antiquities found near Winchester. Artists and Engravers: Made by J. Basire...
Category
Antique 18th Century Prints
Materials
Paper
Antique Map of Yemen by Schraembl, 1789
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique map titled 'Karte von dem groessten Theil des Landes Jemen'. Original map of Yemen, this map is the first printed map specifically of Yemen, and t...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century Maps
Materials
Paper
$835 Sale Price
20% Off
Original Classical Lamp Engravings: Montfaucon's Collection, Published in 1722
Located in Langweer, NL
These set of original antique engravings are from Bernard de Montfaucon's "L'Antiquité expliquée et représentée en figures" (Antiquity Explained and Represented in Figures), which is a comprehensive collection of engravings illustrating various aspects of ancient life. This work was a significant contribution to the study of antiquity in the early 18th century. The specific volume these images are taken from likely deals with artifacts such as lamps, which were common in burial practices and other rituals of ancient cultures.
This collage showcases three pages from Bernard de Montfaucon's seminal work "L'Antiquité expliquée et représentée en figures." Each page features detailed engravings of ancient lamps...
Category
Antique 1720s Prints
Materials
Paper
$742 / set
Free Shipping
Classical Antiquities Collection: Engravings of Mythological Deities and Figures
Located in Langweer, NL
Classical Antiquities Collection: Engravings of Mythological Deities and Figures from Bertuch’s *Porte-Feuille des Enfants* (1805)
Description: This extraordinary compilation of si...
Category
Antique Early 1800s Prints
Materials
Paper
You May Also Like
Set Of Ten Framed Engravings Of Classical Vases By Carlo Antonini
Located in Essex, MA
print size is 8x10. Engravings of ancient vessels.
Category
Antique 1830s Italian Grand Tour Prints
Materials
Glass, Giltwood, Paper
Framed Set of 18th Century Classical Engravings
Located in Pembroke, MA
Two French matted and framed 18th century black and white engravings inspired by Classical Antiquity. The first frame contains an engraving of a woman patting a unicorn, and a man an...
Category
Antique 18th Century French Classical Greek Prints
Materials
Giltwood, Paper
$3,500 Sale Price / set
20% Off
Pair of Gilt Framed Classical Engravings in Sepia Tones, Engraved by J. Spiegl
Located in Atlanta, GA
A pair of Gilt Framed Classical Engravings in Sepia Tones which were engraved by J. Spiegl; from Germany originating in the 18th century.
Category
Antique 18th Century German Prints
Materials
Other
Set of 4 Antique Piranesi Classical Inn Engraving Prints 1810
By Giovanni Battista Piranesi
Located in Lambertville, NJ
A set of four Italian Piranesi framed and matted engravings of neoclassical urns. The engravings are deep plate engravings with crisp images, later framed in walnut frames under glas...
Category
Antique 1810s Italian Neoclassical Prints
Materials
Glass, Wood, Paper
Antique English Engraving on Architecture
By Richard Blome
Located in Alessandria, Piemonte
Antique English engraving on Architecture: rare and very interesting, especially for an Archituctural Study.
I can frame it upon request.
ref. ST/382.
Category
Antique Late 17th Century English Other Prints
Materials
Paper
19th Century Italian Neo Classical Veduta Generale del Monte Quirinale Engraving
Located in Dallas, TX
Decorate an office or study with this antique black and white engraving. Hand colored in Italy circa 1760, the large monochromatic etching is set in a black and gilt frame with protective glass, and depicts the "Veduta Generale del Monte...
Category
Antique Early 19th Century Italian Neoclassical Prints
Materials
Paper
