Lot 17: Attributed to Henry Pether (active 1828-1865) The Eruption of Vesuvius by night

The Eruption of Vesuvius by night
oil on canvas
50.7 x 66.2cm (19 15/16 x 26 1/16in).

PROVENANCE:
With Leggatt Brothers, London (according to a label on the reverse)

Henry Pether, along with his father Abraham, became known for his moonlit views not only of the Thames but also of Italy, most particularly Venice. The present lot can be compared with his signed work offered at Sotheby's London, 21 March 2001, lot 91. The treatment of the water together with the sky and moonlight is typical of Pether.

Following the many eruptions of the second half of the 18th century and the early 19th century, Vesuvius continued to fascinate the British public. With this painting, Henry Pether continues the tradition established by earlier British artists, such as Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797) and William Marlow (1740-1813).