This captivating photograph - Red Pompeii - captures a unique detail of an ancient wall in Pompeii, painted in a vibrant shade of red. The subject of the photography is not just a wall, but a silent storyteller, a vestige of a civilization lost to time, yet preserved in its striking hues of colors.
I was inspired to capture this image during my visit to the historical city of Pompeii, awestruck by the city's profound resilience and enduring beauty. The photograph is an artistic expression of the transient nature of human existence juxtaposed with the enduring nature of artistic creations. It's a testament to the life, culture, and artistic prowess of the ancient Romans, a tribute to their spirit.
Taken during the golden hour, the photograph is bathed in a warm, ethereal light that amplifies the red's intensity, creating an atmosphere of mystery and allure. I captured this with a wide aperture to focus on the wall's detail.
This photograph is an ideal acquisition for lovers of history, art, and travel. It's a conversation starter, compelling viewers to delve deeper into the story it tells. Whether displayed in a living room, office, or study, this image adds an instant touch of sophistication and elegance, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any space.
Investing in this photograph distinguishes you as a connoisseur of fine art photography, someone who appreciates and acknowledges the beauty inherent in historical artifacts. It's a statement piece that speaks to your unique taste and sensibilities. Not buying it could mean missing an opportunity to own a piece of history, to connect personally with a past civilization through its art.
This photograph is more than just wall art. It's a blend of history, art, and storytelling that instantly elevates the status of your home or office. It's not just you who will admire it every day. This photograph will surely catch the eye of all your guests, marking you as someone with refined and exquisite taste.
You are viewing a detail of an original wall from Pompeii ruins. It was buried in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
“Pompeian Red,” immediately evokes the feeling of ancient paintings, and artists often used the red color on houses and public buildings of the buried city of Pompeii. It is a gradation of red tending to ocher obtained from the processing cinnabar (the mineral from which mercury is extracted).
Originally, given the high cost of production, it was used sparingly but in Roman times it began to be used to cover entire walls thereby showing off the wealth of the landlords.
Pompeii Ruins and the Pompeian Red Origin
The history of this bright color is full of theories and anecdotes. Recent archaeological studies have, in fact, discovered that most of the houses of Pompeii and Herculaneum, from which the color takes its name, were originally ocher yellow.
he gases and the strong heat emanating from the eruption of Vesuvius, which submerged the two towns, acted on the pigment of the walls, turning it into a fiery red.
Pompeian red is austere, classy and fascinating. Turning to the present day, it is one of the most interesting options for those setting up classic environments, of richness and depth to complement elegant furnishings.
In recent years, using red for kitchen walls is enjoying considerable success. Probably because it is a very strong and intense color that is very valid and effective for the renovation of a restaurant, for example.
Used to repaint the kitchen cupboards, in particular for furniture with classic lines and rich details, Pompeian red creates a very personalized space.
For a modern living room, it is an interesting proposal. Especially when you want to denote a space where details, colors, and accessories can make the difference.
The particular intensity of the color requires attention in its use
The rich history behind Pompeian red makes it suitable for homes that are intended to be designed in classic style.
But be careful: red is the most attractive color for the eye. This photograph could be so powerful as to overshadow all the remaining furniture.
My suggestion is to utilize it, but subtly in the selection of the size of the frame. Of course, unless you would like this photograph to be the main focal point of a room.
This photograph, an original detail of the history of Pompeii, can be a conversation starter in the kitchen or a corner of the living room. For those who love the bohemian and eclectic style, it is a shade of red that can easily be combined with orange, yellow, green, purple, or burgundy.
Some years ago, a French gentleman expatriated to Brazil, kindly wrote to inform me that he created a spot for this photograph near his swimming pool located in his villa in Rio de Janeiro…It just shows you the possibilities are endless!
Pompeii Ruins: a Museum of Quality Fine Art Photography
I’ve chosen to work in partnership with Fine Art America. It’s the largest custom framing company in the world with over 40 years of experience producing museum-quality prints.
Fine Art America offers hundreds of different frames and mats in a variety of colors and materials. You can also choose the dimension of the photograph that best works for you and your décor.
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If you love Italy and you love elegance—you’ve just found the perfect combination. It will be a treat for your eyes and enhance your living space. You deserve striking beauty in your home and you can be sure friends and family will notice.
Paolo Modena
My name is Paolo. I am a photographer. I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in Italy, surrounded by the art that is the envy of the world. I enjoy photography because it has caused me to fall in love with light, shade, and color. I see the world around me with fresh eyes every single day. And sometimes, when the mood is right, I just sit back and enjoy the moment without taking a photo.