Eruption of Vesuvius

90: Eruption of Vesuvius

Giuseppe de Nittis
Barletta 1846 - 1884 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

2015-S.2: Fondation Custodia
Rights held by: Fondation Custodia, Collection Frits Lugt, Paris

De Nittis, together with several like-minded artists, founded the “Scuola di Resina” (School of Resina) in Naples in 1863. The group prioritized a direct approach to nature, and De Nittis was especially interested in depicting light and atmospheric effects. In 1867, he went to Florence and then to Paris, where he became immersed in the city’s artistic life, befriending Edgar Degas among many others. He made his Paris Salon debut in 1869 and was involved with the Macchiaioli, the Italian counterparts of the French impressionists. Although he died young, he enjoyed great international success during his lifetime.

Text written and researched by Amy Marquis Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge.

Oil on wood panel
25.4 × 15.9 cm

Created: 1872