The loggia of Amalfi’s Duomo has beautiful arches with tracery done in an Arab-Moorish style. This in addition to the bold graphic bands of contrasting stone that now conjure visions of Sephora’s retail brand make for an enchanting entrance to the church, 60 steps above the main square below. .

As I did my sketch on site, an older woman with a distinctly humped back worked tirelessly in the early morning light cleaning the marble pavement with a tiny string mop until the floor shone. We chatted as I left to go but not before she got to asking if I was married.