Existing comment:
Randolph Rogers
Mydia, the Blind Girl of Pompeii, 1860
Randolph Rogers, best known for his neo-classical sculptures like Nydia, gained inspiration for this piece from literature. Edward Bulwer-Lytton's story of the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, published in 1834, was titled The Last Days of Pompeii. In characteristic Victorian fashion, the demise of the city is graphically depicted to echo the fate of Nydia and contradict her heroic nature. Nudia, a blind slave, is able to skillfully navigate the ash-covered, darkened city of Pompeii, and rescue her love and another woman. Rogers depicts her the moment after she has called to her friends, resting on her staff and listening for their replies. Upon reaching safety, Nydia learns that her love is enamored with the other rescued victim. Distraught, she commits suicide. |