Johann Ludwig Bertuch, Mount Vesuvius Eruptions, 1798, Engravings on Paper, Set of 2

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1798 Engraving of Mt. Vesuvius Eruptions - Lava in 1760, Ashes in 1794 : This 1798 hand-coloured copperplate engraving is … Read more 1798 Engraving of Mt. Vesuvius Eruptions - Lava in 1760, Ashes in 1794 : This 1798 hand-coloured copperplate engraving is from Johann Ludwig Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" ("Picture Book for Children"), published in Weimar. The engraving illustrates two significant eruptions of Mount Vesuvius. The top image, labeled "Fig. 1," captures the dramatic eruption of lava that occurred in 1760, with fiery molten flows streaming down the volcano’s slopes amidst dark plumes of smoke. The scene vividly portrays the force of nature as lava consumes the landscape below, with small figures in the foreground for scale. The lower image, labeled "Fig. 2," presents a view of the ash eruption from 1794, as seen from a distance, with people gathered along the shoreline to witness the spectacle. The cloud of volcanic ash towers above the mountain, while onlookers, dressed in 18th-century attire, observe the event. Ships are also seen on the bay, highlighting the juxtaposition of daily life against the dramatic power of Vesuvius. Friedrich Johann Bertuch (1747-1822) was a German publisher known for his 12-volume "Bilderbuch für Kinder," which was published from 1790 to 1830 and featured over 1,200 engraved plates on natural history, mythology, costume, and more. This educational work aimed to inspire curiosity and learning in children, presenting complex scientific events in an accessible and visually captivating way. These depictions of volcanic eruptions offer a vivid representation of the power and unpredictability of natural forces. Condition report: Lightly toned margins, minor foxing spots, vibrant hand-colouring retained, no significant damage. See less