Zocchi’s dramatic views of mid-18th century Florence

The complete set of 24 views of Florence drawn by Giuseppe Zocchi (c.1711-67) on the commission of the Marchese Andrea Gerini (1691-1766), and engraved by some of the foremost Italian engravers of the period, including Guiseppe Vasi. Although the influences of Piranesi can be seen, Zocchi pays more attention to everyday life in the city, including boatmen, swimmers, knife-grinders, promenaders and coachmen. The last four plates depict the festivals of the city, including the Chariot Race at Piazza Santa Maria Novella.

The series was first published in 1744 and, like this edition, was dedicated to Maria Theresa of Austria, whose husband was Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor and Duke of Tuscany.