A 19th-Century Vista of Palermo and Monte Pellegrino

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It’s a lovely vista even today from this hillside spot recently ravaged by fire and filled in by 8- to … Read more It’s a lovely vista even today from this hillside spot recently ravaged by fire and filled in by 8- to 10-story high-rises in the basin below. Yet this work is a time capsule back to the 19th century. Although relatively small, this gouache painting packs a lot of content.
Founded in 1426 on the outskirts of Palermo, the Monastery of Santa Maria del Gesu became a favored spot for 19th-century painters like this unknown artist, only identified with the initials T. R., due to its splendid panorama taking in Palermo with the iconic formation of Monte Pellegrino beyond. Here, two monks in the foreground walk up the entry road, having come through the gate just below. A covered lookout at the upper right would have permitted further enjoyment of the panoramic vista. Sails out on the horizon and two-masted schooners at the wharf speak to regular trade between this port city and its neighbors on the far northwest tip of Sicily.
During the 19th century landscape paintings, especially one like this capturing a renowned Italian vista, were highly popular among travelers. How else would you be able to share with family and friends back in overcast northern Europe the glories of Italian light and gardens? How else could you keep that memory alive? See less