Botany · 19th century
€ 160
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition Report: The 1819 etching shows light foxing and edge yellowing, typical for its age. No tears or significant damage; colors remain vivid with clear details intact.
This evocative 1819 etching, titled "Pilgrims, Costumes of Naples," captures a poignant moment of devotion in 19th-century Naples, masterfully illustrated by Italian artist Bartolomeo Pinelli with contributions from British artist Richard Bridgens. The scene centers on a group of pilgrims gathered around a roadside shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, as indicated by the Italian inscriptions like "Vergine di Maria Pregate Gesu per Me" (Virgin Mary, Pray to Jesus for Me). The pilgrims, dressed in traditional Neapolitan attire, embody the region’s deep Catholic faith. A figure in a red robe stands solemnly with a staff, while another in a blue cloak kneels in prayer, joined by children who add a sense of familial unity. The shrine features a framed image of the Virgin and Child, adorned with symbolic elements like a cross and a depiction of souls in purgatory, reflecting the spiritual fervor of the time.
Bartolomeo Pinelli (1781–1835), born in Rome, was renowned for his detailed etchings of Italian life, often focusing on the customs and costumes of ordinary people with a Romantic touch. His works were widely circulated in Europe, appealing to collectors fascinated by Italian culture. Richard Bridgens (1785–1846), a British artist and architect, likely played a role in the engraving or publication process, as his name appears on the print alongside Pinelli’s. Published in London in 1819 by W. Miller & Co., this piece reflects the collaborative nature of 19th-century printmaking, where artists and publishers worked together to bring regional scenes to an international audience. The etching’s fine lines and delicate shading highlight Pinelli’s skill in capturing the textures of clothing and the solemn atmosphere, making this print a valuable historical artifact for those interested in Neapolitan traditions and 19th-century art. This artwork not only documents a moment of faith but also showcases the enduring appeal of Pinelli’s ethnographic vision.
Condition Report: The 1819 etching shows light foxing and edge yellowing, typical for its age. No tears or significant damage; colors remain vivid with clear details intact.
Framing Tips: Opt for a walnut or gold wooden frame to match the print's warm tones. Use a cream mat to highlight its vintage appeal, ensuring UV-protective glass to preserve it.
