323 - M. MERIAN (*1593) after SANDRART (*1606), The Eruption of Vesuvius in 1635, 1635, copper engraving

M. MERIAN (*1593) after SANDRART (*1606), The Eruption of Vesuvius in 1635, 1635, copper engraving Matthäus Merian the Elder (1593 Basel – 1650 Schwalbach) after Joachim von Sandrart the Elder (1606 – 1688): Vesuvius during the eruption of 1635, 1635, copper engraving Technique: Copper engraving on paper, mounted on paper Inscription: Upper center, inscribed on the printing plate: "True depiction of Mount Vesuvius and its eruption, along with the surrounding area, drawn from life by Joachim Sandrart, 1635.". Additional inscription in the upper middle: "VESUVIUS MONS NEAPOLEOS". Date: 1635 Description: The eruption of Mount Vesuvius, viewed from the northwest, takes place against a strikingly idyllic landscape. Only the carefully executed figure group attempts to create drama: on the bridge over the River Sebeto in the foreground on the right, the inhabitants of the affected villages of Torre del Greco and Torre Anunciata are hurrying with carts, donkeys, and luggage to reach safety in Naples. Below the image is a caption divided into four columns labeled A through L. Source: Matthäus Merian (1593 Basel–1650 Langenschwalbach) *Theatrum Europaeum*, 17th and 18th Centuries | Book, Politics Keywords: Vesuvius, eruption, volcano, catastrophe, force of nature, natural disaster, Naples, 17th century, Baroque, Nature, Italy, Size: Paper: 21.0 cm x 32.7 cm (8.3 x 12.9 in), Image: 19.0 cm x 32.6 cm (7.5 x 12.8 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. The paper has discolored slightly due to its age and has some light staining. It has been folded vertically down the center. The print is faint. The backing board is cracked, with bumped corners and edges