Giovanni Battista Piranesi

Sale, London, Sotheby's, 2 July 1984, lot 126, reproduced p. 73

Laid down. Overall in good condition. Medium remains fresh and strong.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This very small drawing still conveys the sense of space so characteristic of Piranesi.  It is a capriccio composed of classical elements and does not seem to have been used for a print.  It is close in style to a similarly small Sketch of a Prison Interior which is thought to be dated circa 1743.¹

1.  Northampton, Mass., Smith College Museum of Art, Piranesi, 1961, p. 6, no. 46, reproduced pl. 7