Marina piccola, Capri 1874

Edward Theodore Compton painted this watercolor of the Marina Piccola on Capri during the late 19th or early 20th century. Compton was known for his landscapes, particularly of mountainous regions, and his work reflects a broader cultural fascination with the picturesque and sublime aspects of nature. This image presents a view of Capri that is both romantic and grounded in the everyday. The inclusion of the fisherman and boats suggests the local economy and way of life, yet the soft lighting and dramatic cliffs evoke a sense of awe. During this time, Capri was becoming a popular destination for artists and tourists, drawn to its natural beauty and mild climate. To fully appreciate this work, we might consider travel guides, postcards, and other ephemera from the period, tracing the development of Capri as a site of cultural exchange and artistic inspiration. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.