Italy Observed: Views and Souvenirs 1706-1899 December 15, 2010

This installation will assemble the rich holdings of Italian "vedute" collected by Robert Lehman. From paintings of Venetian life by Luca Carlevaris to a Neapolitan album of gouache drawings documenting the eruption of Vesuvius in 1794 to sketches and watercolors of Italian antiquities by visitors on the Grand Tour, the exhibition will capture the artist's romantic attraction to Italy and its irresistible Roman heritage. Joining the selection will be marketed souvenirs -- teapots, spoons, fans and pocket watches -- on loan from the Department of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts.