Roberto Rive, Martyrs' Square, Naples, Italy C 1870 Dry Stamp Albumen Print Photograph

Period albumen print, dry stamp.

Martyrs' Square, Naples

The monument sits enthroned in the center, flanked by four sculpted lions and surrounded by a richly decorated wrought-iron gate. In the background are buildings typical of Italian architecture of the period, suggesting a lively urban environment. Several figures, including men and children, are depicted in the street and on the sidewalk, observing the monument.

The Piazza dei Martiri is a historic square in Naples, opened in the 17th century, and its central monument (a column surmounted by a statue symbolizing the Virtue of Martyrs) was erected as a tribute to Neapolitans who died for freedom. The four lions at its base represent historical periods linked to the Neapolitan "martyrs", notably between 1745 and 1860.

Format 19.8 x25.9 cm
Under mat 40 x50

Roberto Rive (1825-1889) was a British photographer based in Italy.
He was a portraitist and topographic photographer, setting up his studios in Naples.
He documented monuments and everyday life in Italy's major cities.