LEOPOLDO METLICOVITZ (1868-1944) POLA / VENEZIA GIULIA. Circa 1925. 27 1/4x39 1/2 inches, 69 1/4x100 1/2 cm. G. Ricordi & C., Milan. Condition B+: time-staining, small repaired tears, creases and repaired pin holes in margins; creases and toning in image. The Italian State Railways - the Ferrovie dello Stato - was created in 1905, consolidating tracks all over the region. New access to this affordable mode of travel provided the potential for a tourism boom. Travel posters commissioned by the FS were made to "beautify railroad stations while advertising picture-perfect destinations throughout Italy" (Travel Italia p. 12). Metlicovitz's idyllic scene illustrates the town of Pola (previously "Pula,") which had been recently acquired by Italy after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Travel Italia p. 12.
