Pair of Neapolitan Gouaches of the 1855 Eruption of Vesuvius

Naples, circa 1855–60 | Gouache on paper | Original giltwood frames

A superb Grand Tour pair of mid-19th-century gouaches depicting Mount Vesuvius in full eruption, viewed from the Bay of Naples. One captures the nocturnal drama of lava under moonlight; the other, a tranquil daylight scene with rising smoke. Both feature crisp architectural detail, including the Granili warehouses and Castel Sant’Elmo, and are animated by 19th-century steamers and Neapolitan boats.

Painted around the time of the 1855 eruption, these works were produced for the flourishing Grand Tour market. Recently conserved with 70% UV-protective non-reflective glass, acid-free mounts, and archival re-backing using their original 19th-century giltwood frames.

50 × 42 cm (framed)