Gezicht op het Dogepaleis en San Marcoplein te Venetië 1834 - 1838

This print depicts the Doge’s Palace and the Piazza San Marco in Venice, created by Henry Le Keux in the 19th century. During this period, Venice was a popular subject for artists and tourists alike, who were drawn to its romantic atmosphere and rich history. Le Keux captures the bustling activity of the city, with gondolas and boats crisscrossing the waterways. However, this idealized image obscures the stark realities of Venetian society. The wealth and grandeur on display were built on the backs of laborers and marginalized communities, whose stories are often left untold in such picturesque scenes. The image speaks to a specific kind of tourist gaze, one that romanticizes the city. Consider this image as an invitation to look beyond the surface and reflect on the complex social dynamics that shaped Venice and its representation in art.