Capriccio of a palace interior with figures banqueting, the cornices showing scenes from mythology

This supremely elegant interior is typical of the works produced in northern Italy during the 18th century by the Bibiena family of architects and scenographers. They were hugely influential in the dissemination of set design throughout Europe, the popularity of which was in large part due to the innovatory theoretical treatises penned by Ferdinand (1657-1743). His brother, Francesco (1659-1739), was responsible for the building of the Teatro Filarmonico in Verona and the now lost Teatro Alibert in Rome. The family’s works are characterized by vast spaces and an abundance of fantastical, repeating perspectives.