Seller of chestnuts and dried legumes 1823

Saverio della Gatta made this watercolor of a chestnut seller around 1820 in the Kingdom of Naples. It gives us a glimpse into everyday life in this vibrant port city, but it’s also more than just a snapshot. Della Gatta specialized in these kinds of scenes of Neapolitan life, which were popular with tourists and locals alike. But they weren’t simply neutral documents. Look at the way the figures are arranged, almost like a stage set. This is no accident, but a carefully constructed image of the working class, designed to be picturesque and appealing, like a souvenir. The seller is not just selling food; he is selling an image of Naples itself. For the historian, this image offers a point of entry into understanding the economy of tourism and its impact on local culture. Archival sources like tourist guides, market reports, and even police records can help fill out the picture.