Naples – Views of Pompeii

Naples (early 19th century)

SIX VIEWS OF POMPEII

Circa 1800

Gouache on paper, small formats

In the past, it was common for travellers from all over the world to bring home works of art as souvenirs of their adventures. These were not only decorative pieces, but also witnesses to past eras and cultures. They told stories of distant lands and transported viewers to unknown worlds.

The depictions of Pompeii from Goethe's time presented here are precisely such finds. They show the impressive ruins and daily life in this ancient city, which was once buried by Vesuvius.