I · THE OBJECT · BRITISH MUSEUM
Piranesi Vase
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The Piranesi Vase is a grand deception: a fake that tells the truth about history and art. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a fascinating study in authenticity.
At a glance
- Creator
- Giovanni Battista Piranesi
- Type of object
- Vase
- Collection
- British Museum
Look closer
A scene of satyrs making wine
The frieze around the vase's upper part depicts a Bacchic celebration. The design is based on an altar found in Naples during the eighteenth century, illustrated by Bernard de Montfaucon.
Legs and base
The vase stands on three legs with a triangular base. Its lower section was heavily influenced by the Torlonia Vase — which itself had 16th-century additions to it in the form of lions' legs.
Acquisition and ownership
Known as the Boyd Vase, it was acquired by Sir John Boyd during his Grand Tour. It was displayed at Danson House before being purchased by the British Museum in 1868.
The story
The Piranesi Vase is a reconstruction: a monumental marble krater crafted from fragments and restored by Giovanni Battista Piranesi. The upper part of the vase draws inspiration from the Borghese Vase, featuring intricate reliefs around its sides.
At 107 inches tall and 28 inches in diameter, it stands on three legs and a triangular base. The frieze of the Piranesi Vase uses numerous original fragments to reproduce a scene of satyrs making wine. This design is modeled after an altar found in Naples during the eighteenth century, illustrated by Bernard de Montfaucon.
The vase's lower part, however, was not original; rather, it was influenced by the Torlonia Vase which itself had 16th-century additions to it in the form of lions' legs. The Piranesi Vase and the so-called Warwick Vase are among the most ambitious restoration projects in which Piranesi was involved.
Each vase was depicted by three plates in Vasi, Candelabri e Cippi, a compilation of etchings produced in 1778. The vase was sold as a genuine ancient Roman artefact, which was considered an acceptable practice at the time.
Why it mattered then
In Piranesi's time, restoring and rebuilding ancient artifacts from fragments was common practice. The Piranesi Vase exemplifies this approach, blending original fragments with new elements to create a coherent and impressive artifact. This practice allowed for the preservation and interpretation of ancient art, even if the results were not always historically accurate.
Why it matters now
The Piranesi Vase remains significant today as an example of artistic ingenuity and historical reconstruction. It highlights the complexities of authenticity in art and the ethical considerations surrounding the restoration and display of cultural artifacts. The vase continues to be a focal point for discussions about the role of art in preserving history.
The surprising detail
A Dutch tourist's diary entry mentions the vase as being present in Piranesi's workshop in 1776. This record suggests that the vase was already considered notable during its creation, adding an interesting layer to its provenance and significance
How it got here
The Piranesi Vase was acquired by Sir John Boyd during his Grand Tour and displayed at Danson House before being purchased by the British Museum in 1868. The vase has been part of the museum's collection since then.
Remember this
The Piranesi Vase is a masterful blend of original fragments and new elements, reflecting the artistic practices of its time.
Test yourself
What is the significance of the Piranesi Vase being sold as a genuine ancient Roman artifact?
The vase was part of the 18th-century practice where it was acceptable to restore and sell artifacts as originals. This reflects the period's approach to art restoration.
Go deeper
Image: Steve F-E-Cameron ( Merlin-UK ), CC BY-SA 3.0. Licence: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source.