Casa di Marco Lucrezio, Pompei (House of Marco Lucrezio, Pompeii) c. 1870

This albumen silver print by Giorgio Sommer captures the Casa di Marco Lucrezio in Pompeii, immortalizing a moment in the city's rediscovery during the 19th century. Sommer’s photograph presents us with a view into the private world of a wealthy Roman household. The arrangement of statues within the courtyard suggests a curated display of wealth and cultural sophistication. Made in Italy, during the 1860s, the image reflects the era's fascination with classical antiquity. After centuries of being buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the excavation of Pompeii became a popular site for scholars and tourists alike. Photography played a crucial role in disseminating images of these archaeological finds, feeding into the wider European and American interest. This photograph serves as both a historical document and an aesthetic object, highlighting the complex interplay between art, commerce, and the emergent heritage industry. To fully appreciate its significance, we can consult archaeological reports, travelogues, and the photographic archives of the time, each offering unique insights into the cultural and historical contexts that shaped its creation.