This painting of the Girandola Fireworks at the Castel Sant Angelo in Rome is by Joseph Wright the English landscape and portrait painter, also known as Wright of Derby. Painted in 1775, this spectacular pyrotechnic display was staged annually on Easter Monday and the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul and in this case, the Coronation of the new Pope, Pius VI. With his scientific curiosity Wright has been acclaimed as a painter of 18th century science because of his numerous paintings of the contemporary scientific world, suggesting he is 'the first professional painter to express the spirit of the Industrial Revolution'. He was delighted with the explosive, colourful displays made by fireworks. It is believed that fireworks were invented in China 2000 years ago. Wright is notable for his exaggerated chiaroscuro paintings with their predominately dark setting contrasted with highlights.