Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Why did Giambattista Piranesi dedicate an ancient Rome plan to Robert Adam?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Robert Adam
Robert Adam, oil painting by an unknown artist; in the National Portrait Gallery, London.
While in Rome during the mid-1750s, the Scottish architect Robert Adam dedicated himself to the serious study, sketching, and measurement of ancient monuments. During this period, he formed a professional acquaintance with the influential engraver Giambattista Piranesi.
In recognition of this connection, Piranesi dedicated his plan of ancient Rome—featured in his 1762 book Il Campo Marzio—to Adam. This publication notably included an engraved portrait of the architect, reflecting the professional esteem between the two men during Adam's formative years in Italy.1