c. 1740 Giuseppe Galli Bibiena “Huc Omnes Germani” Architectural Engraving

An original 18th-century architectural engraving from Giuseppe Galli Bibiena’s monumental Architetture e Prospettive dedicate alla Maestà di Carlo Sesto Imperador de’ Romani (Architectures and Perspectives Dedicated to the Majesty of Charles VI, Emperor of the Romans), published in Augsburg in 1740. The series contains elaborate architectural fantasies and theatrical perspectives conceived by Bibiena, one of the most important members of the celebrated Bibiena family of Baroque stage designers and architects. The National Gallery of Art records the volume as published in 1740 with 51 full-page etched and engraved plates, 39 of them engraved by Johann Andreas Pfeffel. 

This composition is Plate III, commonly catalogued as “Huc Omnes Germani.” A documented example identifies the same plate as an original engraving from the 1740–1744 Architetture e Prospettive series. The scene presents an extraordinary imaginary Baroque cityscape populated with monumental domed structures, triumphal architecture, columns, statues and figures, all arranged according to the dramatic perspective for which Bibiena became renowned.

As Charles VI’s first theatrical engineer and architect, Bibiena designed temporary architecture, theatrical scenery, ceremonial structures and elaborate court spectacles whose physical existence was often inherently fleeting. Through engraving, these designs could instead be preserved, studied and circulated. The complete publication brought together 51 full-page plates after Bibiena, encompassing imperial commissions alongside increasingly imaginative architectural perspectives.

The inscription at lower left reads “Joseph Galli Bibiena … Archit. Theat. Primarius Inv. et del.”, identifying Giuseppe Galli Bibiena (Italy, 1696–1757) as the inventor and draftsman of the composition. At lower right appears “J. A. Pfeffel … Chalcogr. sculpt. direx. A.V.”, identifying Johann Andreas Pfeffel (Germany, 1674–1748) as the engraver and director of the plate. 

Origin: Published in Augsburg, Germany, c. 1740; designed by Italian architect and theatrical designer Giuseppe Galli Bibiena and engraved by German engraver Johann Andreas Pfeffel I.
Material: Engraving and etching on laid paper; later framed under glass
Dimensions: 20.75" L x 28" W
Condition: Antique condition with age-related toning, scattered foxing and discoloration to the paper, most visible through the upper and right portions of the sheet. Presented in a later black and gilt frame with deep green matting. Minor surface wear to frame consistent with age and display. Please reference all photographs for condition.