Nydia, The Blind Flower Girl of Pompeii

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

This statue is based on a character from Edward Bulwer-Lytton’s popular 1834 novel The Last Days of Pompeii . In the episode depicted here, Nydia and her two companions attempt to flee the city after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The three become separated, however, and Randolph Rogers captured Nydia as she gropes her way through the burning city. The broken Corinthian column at her feet symbolizes fallen Pompeii, and Nydia’s clinging garments, entangled in her staff, indicate her chaotic surroundings. Because of its narrative quality, sentimental presentation, and classical features and proportions, this sculpture was extremely popular with the American public upon its first being exhibited.

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