Province, Terra di lavoro 1804

Saverio della Gatta, who was born in Naples in 1758, made this watercolor, depicting a scene in the Italian province of Terra di Lavoro. The artist's skilled application of watercolor and gouache is evident in the delicate rendering of fabrics, and the subtle gradations of tone used to create depth and volume. The artwork's social significance lies in its depiction of everyday life and labor in the province, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during the period. The figures are shown in traditional clothing, possibly going to or coming from work. The clothes are made from locally sourced materials, possibly produced through a cottage industry that involved skilled work and manual labor. The figures' poses and expressions suggest a sense of community and resilience, reflective of the challenges and opportunities of life in the province. The artwork is a valuable artifact that offers insights into the intersection of art, labor, and social context during the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Italy.