Italy - Calabria / Paola - Cosenza; Pierre Mortier (Amsterdam

A very rare and fascinating perspective view of the Hermitage and Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola located in Calabria. The work is scenographically divided into three narrative and geographical levels of extraordinary execution refinement: 1. The mountain summit: It shows the complex architecture of the convent and the original hermitage perched on the rock, with walkways, bridges and the natural gorges of the torrent. 2. The valley and the coast: In the lower part a detailed map of the coastal town of Paola with its shoreline and a historical vessel in navigation ("Portus maris"). 3. The divine apparition: In the lower right corner, breaking through the clouds in a triumph of circular light, appears the revered figure of Saint Francis of Paola in monastic robes. Excellent. The drawing features a sharp, clean ink rendering, with excellent contrast in the blacks. The central editorial fold is sound. A missing/tear is noted on the upper outer corner of the white margin (as shown in the detail photo), which does not touch the plate edge or the incised surface at all. There are slight signs of foxing.

Estimate:£0.84

View all items fromCatawikiorBooks, Maps & Manuscripts