Venetian Canal, Palazzo Corner 1880

John Singer Sargent captured this Venetian canal scene in watercolor. The Palazzo Corner looms, its gothic windows casting long shadows, symbols of Venice’s layered past. Notice how the water reflects and distorts the architecture. This motif of reflection is ancient, appearing in myths and art across cultures. Think of Narcissus, captivated by his reflection, a cautionary tale of self-obsession. In Venice, water is life, but also a mirror reflecting a city prone to decay and secrets. The gondola, a recurring symbol in Venetian art, whispers tales of romance and mystery, its dark silhouette evoking a sense of melancholic beauty. The decay, the reflection, the gondola - all engage our subconscious, tapping into collective memories and emotional associations. They speak of time, memory, and the ephemeral nature of beauty. It is a dance of light and shadow, where the city’s grandeur is both affirmed and questioned.