Fine Gouache of the Twin Masted Steam Yacht Geraldine at Anchor of the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the Background - Signed De Simone 1884

A fine Gouache of the twin masted Steam Yacht Geraldine at anchor of the bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the background. Geraldine ifs flying the white ensign of the Royal Yacht squadron. Signed De Simone 1884. De Simone was a popular Italian painter of marine scenes and ship portraiture. Working predominantly in Naples, Italy, De Simone generally painted vessels with a broadside view in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Naples was a popular anchorage, particularly for yachts, and together with his son, Antonio de Simone (1851-1907), he produced a vast oeuvre. Aside from his artistic pursuits, he was also a Corporal of the Royal Corps of Marine Gunners of the Royal Navy of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, so well aware of the nuances of rigging etc. In 1849, he was awarded a bronze medal of merit by Pope Pius IX. He represented in numerous public collections including the National Maritime Museum and the Science Museum. Public Collections National Maritime Museum, National Trust at Speke Hall, Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre, Science Museum.