Venice Grand Canal, Sunset 

Richard Parkes Bonington made this watercolor of Venice's Grand Canal sometime in the 1820s. It captures the luminous atmosphere of the city, but also hints at the social dynamics at play in the floating city. Bonington was English, but trained in France, a cosmopolitan background that suited the international appeal of Venice. During this period, Venice was a popular destination for wealthy tourists, who came seeking picturesque views and historical grandeur. Bonington caters to this market, depicting the iconic canal with its elegant palazzi. But, look closer and notice the working boats in the foreground and the gondoliers. Their presence reminds us of the city's economic realities, beyond the romantic facade. To truly understand Bonington's Venice, one must consider its place in the history of tourism and representation. Art historians consult travel guides, literature, and social histories to better understand the cultural context that shaped both the city and its image. In this way we see how art serves as both a reflection of and a participant in, the society that produces it.