Gezicht op de kust van Capri 1855

Andreas Achenbach produced this print of the coast of Capri sometime in the 19th century. It presents us with a scene of dramatic natural forces at play: wind, water, and rugged cliffs dominate the view. The image is interesting when considered in the context of the growth of tourism during this period. Capri, with its picturesque scenery, became a popular destination for Northern Europeans seeking the ‘authentic’ experience of the Mediterranean. Artists played a key role in shaping this perception. The use of dramatic lighting and sublime scenery speaks to the commercialization of the area. To understand the image better, we might look at travel accounts from the period, tourist guides, and other images of Capri circulating at the time. What was it about this location that captured the imagination of artists and tourists alike?