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Virgils Tomb
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Virgils Tomb
Virgils Tomb (1785). Wright, Joseph of Derby 1734-1797. Wright travelled in Italy from 1774-76 and produced many fine drawings of classical subjects and geological curiosities. On his return to England Wright used these drawings to produce a number of paintings of Italian subjects, many of which employ dramatic effects of light. Virgils Tomb, near Naples, was much visited on the ?Grand Tour? due to its picturesque appearance and the great esteem in which the Roman poet Virgil was held in the eighteenth century. Date: 1785
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Media ID 13101655
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Curiosities Derby Dramatic Drawings Effects Employ Geological Paintings Produce Produced Return Subjects Tomb Travelled Wright
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning 1785 painting by Joseph Wright of Derby, titled "Virgil's Tomb," captures the awe-inspiring beauty and historical significance of one of the most popular stops on the Grand Tour of eighteenth-century Europe. Wright, an English artist known for his meticulous drawings of classical subjects and geological curiosities, created this work after traveling to Italy from 1774 to 1776. Upon his return to England, he used his extensive collection of sketches to produce a series of paintings that showcased the dramatic effects of light. The subject of this painting is the tomb of the renowned Roman poet Virgil, located near Naples. Virgil, whose works included the epic poems "The Aeneid" and "Georgics," was held in great esteem during the eighteenth century, making his tomb a must-see destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome. The picturesque appearance of the tomb, with its overgrown vegetation and crumbling architecture, adds to its allure and contributes to the sense of history and mystery that surrounds it. Wright's masterful use of light and shadow in this painting brings the scene to life, creating a sense of depth and texture that transports the viewer to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. The play of light on the tomb's surface, as well as the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, adds a sense of serenity and tranquility to the scene. Overall, "Virgil's Tomb" is a testament to Wright's artistic skill and his ability to capture the essence of a place and time, making it a beloved masterpiece of the eighteenth-century artistic canon.
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