art deco italian

Ravello – Villa Rufolo, Publio Morbiducci, 1933

Original 1933 Italian travel poster featuring Villa Rufolo in Ravello, designed by Publio Morbiducci and issued by the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT). Ravello, a medieval village set high above the Amalfi Coast, is renowned for its panoramic views and historic architecture. Villa Rufolo, built in the 13th century by a wealthy merchant family, blends Arab, Moorish, and classical influences reflecting Ravello’s position on Mediterranean trade routes. The villa is famously mentioned in Boccaccio’s Decameron (1353).

From the late 19th century, Ravello became a celebrated retreat for artists, writers, and musicians during the era of the Grand Tour. Richard Wagner composed parts of Parsifal here, and later visitors included Virginia Woolf, D.H. Lawrence, Winston Churchill, and Greta Garbo.

Publio Morbiducci (1889–1963), best known as a sculptor and designer, also created striking poster art for ENIT. His works combined classical imagery with modernist design. This example, printed by Calcocromia Novarra, survives in nice condition with light folds and has strong historical significance as part of Italy’s interwar tourism campaign.

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Details

Title: Ravello – Villa Rufolo
Artist: Publio Morbiducci
Year: 1933
Editor: ENIT (Italian National Tourist Board)
Printer: Calcocromia Novarra
Size: 27.25 x 39 in.
Print Type: Lithograph
Linen: Not specified
Condition: Nice condition with light folds