Festa della Sensa (vijfde gedeelte) 1679

Curator: Jost Amman created this engraving titled "Festa della Sensa (vijfde gedeelte)" around 1679. It is currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: My initial reaction is one of fascination with the complex linework and the almost theatrical staging of this cityscape. It seems like a meticulously crafted performance frozen in time. Curator: Indeed. The print depicts the Feast of the Ascension in Venice. This particular segment captures a ceremonial procession, vital to Venice's cultural memory and political identity. It reinforced their dominion over the sea. Editor: Focusing on form, notice how the artist employs line engraving to define depth and texture. The density of lines creates shadows and highlights, giving volume to the architecture and figures despite the monochromatic palette. Curator: Consider also the Doge's role, visibly central, he symbolically throws a ring into the water, marrying Venice to the sea, perpetuating the myth of Venice as divinely ordained. Editor: The architecture also plays a pivotal role here. The Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, though simplified through the engraving technique, symbolize Venetian power and prestige. The rigid lines almost feel celebratory in their formality. Curator: And don't ignore the symbolic resonance of water. The act is rich with layers, from Venice's geographic reliance to allusions to baptism, cleansing, and renewal—essential motifs within Christian iconography. Editor: It is all tightly controlled. Jost Amman clearly uses orthogonal lines in almost a grid to provide spatial organization, while the tonal variety suggests depth and recession. A very measured yet still very captivating work. Curator: This piece really resonates, serving as a record and reaffirmation of Venice’s unique cultural position. Editor: A fine example of how structural elements collaborate to generate meaning and ultimately, artistic effect. I enjoyed our conversation.