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Destruction of Pompeii Timeline

(August 24, 79 AD - Present)

This timeline covers the events leading up to the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the destruction of the ancient city of Pompeii, and the aftermath of the natural disaster. Less

Go to: Timeline | Event List | Key Facts | Directory

Completion of Painting

John Martin completes 'Destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum'

1822

In 1822, English artist John Martin completes the large painting 'The Destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum,' depicting the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Exhibition and Reception

Exhibition at Egyptian Hall in Piccadilly

Mar 1822 - Jul 1822

From March to July 1822, John Martin exhibits 'The Destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum' at the Egyptian Hall in Piccadilly, receiving mixed critical reviews but significant public acclaim with 50,000 visitors.

Inclusion in Tate Gallery's major retrospective exhibition

2011 - 2012

As part of a major retrospective exhibition of John Martin's work at the Tate Gallery in 2011–12, the restored painting is prominently featured, renewing public interest in the artist's work.

Ownership Changes

Sale to Sir John Leicester

1826

The smaller version of John Martin's painting is sold to Sir John Leicester (later Baron de Tabley) in 1826, and it becomes part of the Tabley House Collection of the University of Manchester.

Addition to the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos collection

1826 - 1838

The painting is added to the collection of the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos at Stowe House until at least 1838.

Inheritance by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos

1839

In 1839, the painting is inherited by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, remaining within the family.

Auction at Christie's

1848

Martin's painting is auctioned at Christie's in 1848 and bought by art dealer Charles Buttery for only £100.

Purchase by National Gallery

1869

The National Gallery purchases the painting in 1869 for £200, well below its original auction price.

Transfer to Tate Gallery

1918

The painting is transferred to the Tate Gallery in 1918, where it remains for several decades.

Rediscovery and Restoration

Damage by Thames flood

1928

In 1928, the painting is severely damaged by the Thames flood, leading to its consignment to a basement and subsequent neglect.

Rediscovery by Christopher Johnstone

1973

The painting is rediscovered in 1973 by Christopher Johnstone, a research assistant at the Tate Gallery, who found it while researching his book on John Martin.

Restoration by Sarah Maisey

2010 - 2011

From 2010 to 2011, the painting undergoes extensive cleaning and restoration under the direction of Sarah Maisey, Clothworkers Fellow.

Key Facts

  1. Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, burying the city of Pompeii under ash and pumice.
  2. The city remained forgotten until its rediscovery in 1748, providing a unique snapshot of ancient Roman life.
  3. Over 1,100 bodies have been found in Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption.
  4. Excavations of Pompeii have revealed well-preserved artifacts, frescoes, and buildings, offering valuable insights into Roman society.
  5. The destruction of Pompeii serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of living near an active volcano.

Source

This Destruction of Pompeii timeline was generated with the help of AI, using information found on the internet.

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