The Villa Loredan, Paese c. early 1780s

Francesco Guardi’s "The Villa Loredan, Paese," made with oil on canvas, offers us a glimpse into 18th-century Venetian life. Guardi’s application of paint is particularly noteworthy. He uses loose, feathery brushstrokes to capture the light and atmosphere of the scene. The texture of the canvas itself becomes part of the artwork, adding depth and vitality to the composition. The clothing of the figures shows us not just how the elite dressed, but also hints at the labor involved in producing such fine garments, and the social structures that supported this lifestyle. While seemingly a straightforward landscape, Guardi's focus on the leisure activities of the upper class reminds us of the economic engine powering this lifestyle, the labor of countless others. By attending to these material and social details, we gain a richer understanding of the artwork.