Impronte Umane, Pompei (Human Cast, Pompeii) 1873

Giorgio Sommer's 1873 photograph "Impronte Umane, Pompei (Human Cast, Pompeii)" captures the haunting aftermath of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The photograph depicts a plaster cast of a human body, a victim of the disaster. The cast, preserved in the position in which the individual perished, highlights the tragedy of the event and serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of human life. The stark contrast between the smooth white cast and the dark background emphasizes the stillness of death. This image, a testament to the power of photography to document history, offers a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the devastating impact of natural disasters.