Artwork

Il Vesuvio

Il Vesuvio, by Edward Cooke, 1861
Il Vesuvio, by Edward Cooke, 1861

Il Vesuvio is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Edward Cooke. It dates from 1861 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Il Vesuvio is a pencil drawing created by Edward Cooke in 1861, depicting a serene bay scene with Mount Vesuvius in the background.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a tranquil bay with two boats and a volcanic landscape. A small rowboat is near the shore, while a larger sailing ship is farther out. The volcano, Vesuvius, emits smoke, adding a sense of tension to the otherwise peaceful scene.

Technique & Style

Cooke employed loose, expressive lines to convey the movement of light on the water and the dynamism of the scene. The use of pencil allows for a range of tonal values, capturing the atmosphere of the bay and the volcano's activity.

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Artist & collection

Portrait of Edward Cooke

Artist

Edward Cooke

This British artist spent decades drawing Scotland’s skylines and shores in pencil and ink.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Il Vesuvio?

Il Vesuvio was painted by Edward Cooke in 1861.

Where can I see Il Vesuvio?

Il Vesuvio is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Il Vesuvio?

Il Vesuvio is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Il Vesuvio?

Museum-quality prints of Il Vesuvio are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.