Obelisco a S. Maria Maggiore

Plate from the Nova Racolta degl’Obelischi et Colonne Antiche, della Alma Citta di Roma, con le sue Dichiaratione date in Luce da G. G. Rossi printed in Rome about 1651.

Rare edition, enlarged, of an undated series of 17 plates depicting the obelisks and ancient columns of Rome; each engraving is supplemented by a descriptive caption and most with a scale or height indication. This very focused collection, probably inspired during the pontificate of Innocent X (Camillo Pamphili, reigned 1644-55), was implemented with a plate by Louis Rouhier showing the Pamphili obelisk atop Bernini's Quattro Fiumi fountain in Piazza Navona.

The use of ancient obelisks as the centerpiece of the remarkable transformation of Rome's architecture during the Baroque period has been well documented by architectural historians. Beginning in the last decades of the 16th century, in a grandiose effort to demonstrate the new dynamic spirit of the Counter-Reformation, Sixtus V [reigned 1585-90] moved the Vatican Obelisk to St. Peter's Square and rebuilt those now located in Piazza del Popolo, Piazza dell'Esquilino, and in front of the Lateran. His example was followed by many of his successors during the 17th century.

Etching in excellent condition.