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

R. RIVE (1817–1868), Entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo, around 1875, albumen print Roberto Rive (1817–1868): Entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo in Naples, surrounded by vegetation, c. 1875, albumen print Technique: albumen print Inscription: Lower right, inscribed on the printing plate: "Napoli. Grotta di Posillipo. e Tomba di Virgilio. No. 89". Date: c. 1875 Description: The photograph shows the entrance to the Grotta di Posillipo in Naples, surrounded by lush vegetation. The tunnel arch, carved into the rock face, dominates the center of the image. Steep rock faces overgrown with plants can be seen to the left and right of the entrance. Light streams in from above, partially illuminating the scene, while the interior of the tunnel remains dark. The dense woodland provides a natural frame for the composition. Parts of a building perched on the cliff are visible at the top of the image. The contrast between the rugged rock formations and the soft vegetation emphasizes 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: In fairly good condition. Minor light damage along the edges. Foxing, particularly in the upper margin. Finger stain in the lower left corner. Photograph retouched in places under the glass.