943 - R. RIVE (1817-1868), Entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo, around 1875, albumen paper print

R. RIVE (1817-1868), Entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo, around 1875, albumen paper print Roberto Rive (1817 - 1868 ): Entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo in Naples, surrounded by vegetation, c. 1875, albumen paper print Technique: albumen paper print Inscription: Lower right inscribed in the printing plate: "Napoli. Grotta di Posilipo. e Tomba di Virgilio. N.o 89". Date: c. 1875 Description: The photograph shows an entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo in Naples, surrounded by lush vegetation. The tunnel arch, which is set into the rock face, dominates the centre of the picture. Steep rock faces overgrown with plants can be seen to the left and right of the entrance. The light falls in from above and partially illuminates the scene, while the interior of the tunnel remains dark. The dense woodland lends the composition a natural frame. Parts of a building perched on the cliff are visible at the top of the picture. The contrast between the rough rock structures and the soft vegetation emphasises the wildness of the scenery. Keywords: Grotta di Posillipo; Naples; Tunnel; Vegetation; Rock face; Entrance; Architecture; Nature; Light and shadow; Historical site; Italy; Landscape; Cave; Photography; 19th century; Romanticism; Exploration; Darkness; Plants; Buildings; 19th century; Romanticism; Landscape; Italy; Size: Albumen paper: 25,6 cm x 19,5 cm (10,1 x 7,7 in) Condition: Rather good condition. Minor light damage along the edges. Foxing in the upper margin in particular. Lower left fingerstain. Photograph retouched in places in the glass.