The Harbour Of Naousa – Paros: Original Lithograph

Artist: Paul Hogarth
Price: £295.00
Publisher: The Artist & The Curwen Studio, UK
Publication date: c.1995
Format: Original lithograph
Condition: Very good indeed, unframed
Sheet Size: 54cm x 74cm
Edition: Artist’s Proof, XVI/XX, signed by the artist

Description

This original lithograph by Paul Hogarth is one from a number that he produced at the Curwen Studio. The print, measuring 54cm x 74cm, is an artist’s proof, number XVI/XX. It is signed and numbered by the artist. Small mark to the left hand margin, not affecting the image in any way and which would be covered by the mount. Lithographic image bright and clean. The overall condition is very good indeed with very slight creasing.

Paul Hogarth: A Short Biography

Paul Hogarth (1917–2001) was a distinguished British artist and illustrator, widely recognised for his work in the fields of drawing and illustration, particularly his depiction of architectural and urban landscapes. Hogarth’s work is celebrated for its detailed and evocative portrayals of the human experience within the built environment.

Early Life and Education

Paul Hogarth was born on October 4, 1917, in Kendal, Cumbria, England. He grew up in a working-class family, which later influenced his political views and the themes in his work. Hogarth’s formal art education began at the Manchester School of Art in 1934, where he developed his skills in drawing and painting. He later continued his studies at St. Martin’s School of Art in London.

Career and Artistic Development

During the 1930s, Hogarth became involved with leftist political movements, including the Communist Party of Great Britain. This political engagement deeply influenced his early work, which often depicted the struggles of the working class and the impact of industrialization. In 1936, he joined the Mass Observation project, a social research organization that documented everyday life in Britain. Hogarth’s artistic career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the British Army. After the war, he travelled extensively, and his experiences abroad became a significant influence on his work. Hogarth’s travels took him across Europe, Africa, and Asia, where he documented his surroundings through detailed sketches and watercolours.

Collaboration with Writers

One of Hogarth’s most significant contributions to the arts was his collaboration with renowned writers, including Graham Greene and Lawrence Durrell. His illustrations for Greene’s novels, such as “Our Man in Havana” and “Travels with My Aunt”, brought him widespread acclaim. Hogarth’s ability to capture the essence of a story through his drawings made these collaborations particularly successful.

Later Life and Legacy

In the later years of his career, Paul Hogarth continued to travel and create, with his work becoming more focused on urban landscapes and the interaction between people and their environments. He was elected a Royal Academician in 1974, a testament to his impact on the British art scene. Hogarth’s work is held in numerous public and private collections, and he is remembered as one of the most significant British illustrators of the 20th century. His legacy lives on through his detailed and evocative illustrations that continue to inspire and captivate audiences.

Paul Hogarth passed away on December 27, 2001, leaving behind a rich legacy of artwork that documented the world with a unique blend of realism and social commentary.

The Harbour Of Naousa: A Short History

Location and Geography

Naousa is a picturesque fishing village located on the northern coast of the island of Paros, which is part of the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea. The village is renowned for its charming harbour, which is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the Cyclades. The harbour is nestled within a natural bay that has provided safe anchorage for boats for centuries, contributing to the village’s historical significance and its ongoing role as a centre for fishing and tourism.

Historical Background

Naousa’s history dates back to ancient times, with the area being inhabited since the early Cycladic period. During the classical era, Paros was an important cultural and economic centre in the Aegean, known for its high-quality marble, which was used in many famous ancient sculptures. The harbour of Naousa played a vital role in the island’s maritime activities, serving as a safe haven for ships and a hub for trade. During the Byzantine period, Naousa became an important naval base due to its strategic location, providing protection against pirate raids, which were a significant threat in the Aegean Sea. In the 13th century, the island of Paros, including Naousa, came under the control of the Venetian Republic, which fortified the harbour to protect it from pirate attacks. The remnants of a Venetian fortress, known locally as the “Kastelli,” still stand at the entrance to the harbour, serving as a reminder of this period. The fort was built on a small islet connected to the harbour by a narrow causeway, and its ruins add to the historical ambience of the area.

The Harbour of Naousa in the Ottoman Period

During the Ottoman period, Naousa, like the rest of Paros, was under Turkish control, but the island retained a degree of autonomy due to its geographical isolation and the ongoing threat of piracy. The harbour continued to be a focal point for the local economy, primarily through fishing and trade.

Naousa in Modern Times

In the 20th century, Naousa transformed from a quiet fishing village into one of the most popular tourist destinations on Paros, while still retaining much of its traditional character. The harbour area, with its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant bougainvillea, has become a postcard-perfect example of Cycladic architecture and design. The harbour itself is now lined with traditional fishing boats, known as “kaikia,” alongside modern yachts and pleasure boats, reflecting the blend of old and new that characterises Naousa today. The village is famous for its seafood tavernas, where visitors can enjoy fresh fish and local delicacies while sitting by the water’s edge. Naousa is also known for its lively nightlife, particularly in the summer months when the harbour area becomes a bustling hub of activity, with bars and restaurants open late into the night. Despite this, the village has managed to avoid the over-development seen in some other parts of the Cyclades, maintaining a balance between tourism and its traditional way of life.

Cultural Significance

Naousa is not just a tourist attraction; it is a place with deep cultural roots. The village hosts several festivals throughout the year, including religious celebrations and cultural events that draw on the island’s rich history. One of the most famous is the “Pirate Festival” held in August, which re-enacts the pirate raids of the past, complete with costumes, music, and fireworks. The village is also home to several churches and chapels, reflecting the strong Orthodox Christian heritage of the island. The Church of Agios Nikolaos, located near the harbour, is one of the most prominent, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.

Conclusion

The harbour of Naousa on Paros is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. Its picturesque setting, combined with its rich maritime heritage, makes it one of the most charming and culturally significant spots in the Cyclades.

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