Lake Avernus
Date
1776
Creator
Pietro Fabris (1738, Italian) , Painter
Object type
Library reference
42888
Material
Technique
Dimensions
height (plate): 210mm
width (plate): 385mm
height (page): 320mm
width (page): 452mm
width (plate): 385mm
height (page): 320mm
width (page): 452mm
Subject
Content object
Description
View of the Lake Avernus from the road connecting Puzzoli and Cuma. The ancient town of Baia is visible in the distance, and the outside of the cone of Monte Nuovo is visible on the left [as viewed]. William Hamilton is depicted overlooking the scene, on horseback.
Plate 29 from Campi Phlegraei: observations on the volcanos of the two Sicilies by William Hamilton. The plate is inscribed ‘XXIX’ in the top left corner.
Written in the associated text: 'This lake was evidently the crater of a Volcano. This spot has been celebrated by many ancient Poets who brought their HEROES here to sacrifice to the Manes, or consult the Sybil. HERCULES, ULISSES, and ENEAS are mention'd to have been at AVERNUS.'
William Hamilton (1730-1803) British diplomat, archaeologist and volcanologist was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1766 on the merit of his volcanic observations. He received the Copley Medal in 1770 for his 'Account of a Journey to Mount Etna'.
Pietro Fabris (1740-1792) was a British artist who accompanied Hamilton around Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius, and Lipari islands to document volcanic activities.
Plate 29 from Campi Phlegraei: observations on the volcanos of the two Sicilies by William Hamilton. The plate is inscribed ‘XXIX’ in the top left corner.
Written in the associated text: 'This lake was evidently the crater of a Volcano. This spot has been celebrated by many ancient Poets who brought their HEROES here to sacrifice to the Manes, or consult the Sybil. HERCULES, ULISSES, and ENEAS are mention'd to have been at AVERNUS.'
William Hamilton (1730-1803) British diplomat, archaeologist and volcanologist was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1766 on the merit of his volcanic observations. He received the Copley Medal in 1770 for his 'Account of a Journey to Mount Etna'.
Pietro Fabris (1740-1792) was a British artist who accompanied Hamilton around Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius, and Lipari islands to document volcanic activities.
Object history
This book of hand-coloured plates represents part II of Campi Phlegraei. It complements part I, which consists of letters only. Both were presented to the then President of the Royal Society, Sir John Pringle (1707-1782).
Associated place