Nocturne: Blue and Gold - St Mark's, Venice 1880

"Nocturne: Blue and Gold - St Mark's, Venice" (1880) by James Abbott McNeill Whistler is an oil painting capturing the essence of Venice's St Mark's Square at night. This piece exemplifies Whistler's "Nocturne" series, characterized by hazy, atmospheric effects and muted colors. The composition is dominated by a muted blue sky and a golden-brown foreground, depicting the architectural details of St Mark's Basilica and the surrounding buildings. The painting's soft, evocative brushstrokes create a sense of mystery and tranquility, drawing viewers into the heart of this iconic Venetian scene. The artwork is considered a significant example of Impressionism, demonstrating Whistler's mastery of light and color in depicting a nocturnal cityscape.