Antique 19th century Neapolitan School gouache painting depicting the Blue Grotto Cave in Capri
A charming late 19th century gouache painting depicting the beautiful Blue Grotto sea cave on the island of Capri. These striking scenes were often produced by naive Neapolitan artists for sale to Grand Tourists who travelled across Europe in search of both pleasure and beauty.
The Blue Grotto on the north side of the island of Capri had become renowned as an attraction for tourists during the 19th century. Because its entrance was about three feet high it could be entered in a small rowboat. During Roman times, the grotto was used as the personal swimming hole of Emperor Tiberius as well as a marine temple. The cave as in every medieval history was said to be a refuge for devils and monsters. Two priests determined to drive them away entered the cave swimming, and after a few minutes spent inside it, they ran away in panic as if they had seen the face of the devil. From that moment on, the two began to rant. Named the cursed cave, it has numerous legends.
A good decorative piece with good artistic merit and with an interesting historical subject matter.
The painting being well mounted and framed ready for display. Both the artwork and frame are in a good clean condition being free of any visible faults or defects.
Frame measures 33cm x 28cm
Antique 19th century Neapolitan School gouache painting depicting the Blue Grotto Cave in Capri
A charming late 19th century gouache painting depicting the beautiful Blue Grotto sea cave on the island of Capri. These striking scenes were often produced by naive Neapolitan artists for sale to Grand Tourists who travelled across Europe in search of both pleasure and beauty.
The Blue Grotto on the north side of the island of Capri had become renowned as an attraction for tourists during the 19th century. Because its entrance was about three feet high it could be entered in a small rowboat. During Roman times, the grotto was used as the personal swimming hole of Emperor Tiberius as well as a marine temple. The cave as in every medieval history was said to be a refuge for devils and monsters. Two priests determined to drive them away entered the cave swimming, and after a few minutes spent inside it, they ran away in panic as if they had seen the face of the devil. From that moment on, the two began to rant. Named the cursed cave, it has numerous legends.
A good decorative piece with good artistic merit and with an interesting historical subject matter.
The painting being well mounted and framed ready for display. Both the artwork and frame are in a good clean condition being free of any visible faults or defects.
Frame measures 33cm x 28cm
