View in Venice c. 20th century

Curator: This is Gurdon Saltonstall Howe's "View in Venice," currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. The sepia tone gives it a wonderful nostalgic feel. Editor: Yes, it’s almost dreamlike. The arch of the bridge is mirrored in the water, creating a complete circle and a sense of enclosure. Curator: Howe's choice of etching is interesting here; the process allows for detailed linework, ideal for capturing the city's architectural elements and the reflections on the water. Think about the labor involved in creating these plates, the skill to translate vision into physical form. Editor: True, but also consider how the restricted palette focuses our attention on the composition—the placement of the gondolas, the figures on the bridge—creating depth and perspective through tonal variation. Curator: Howe was depicting a Venice undergoing significant changes due to tourism and modernization. It represents a particular moment in the commodification of Venice, offering a glimpse into the city's evolving identity. Editor: It is a timeless snapshot, though. The symmetry and soft light create an elegant composition—beautiful in its simplicity. Curator: Seeing Howe's Venice makes you think about the relationship between art, labor, and the changing urban landscape, doesn’t it? Editor: Indeed. It provides a visual experience rich in detail and aesthetic unity.