TRIPTYQUE NAPOLITAIN

Neapolitan Triptych (2017–2019) is a video installation of three 16-mm films. Between mythology and science, they tell old and modern stories about Mount Vesuvius. In one section of the triptych, the eyes of the faithful witnessing the miracle of San Gennaro are reflected in the scientists’ attention at the volcano-logical observatory. We get insight into Naples’ ritual to seek protection against volcanic eruptions: The vials with the dried blood of the city’s patron saint, San Gennaro, are pulled out to liquify the blood three times a year. Further along in the films we learn about the tragic end of Pliny the Elder who died because he came too close to the object of his studies— namely Mt. Vesuvius. His goal had been to create an inventory of the world with his encyclopaedic Naturalis Historia (about 50 AD). The soundtrack—sounds coming from playing old film reels—stands as reminder of the images’ fragility. – Text: Sarah Mühlebach