A Ruin Caprice

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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A fortified town sits at the edge of a peaceful lagoon – we see just a few boats and a handful of people. These boats may be carrying supplies to and from Venice; for centuries, the city had profited from strong trading routes with mainland Italy and across the Mediterranean. The foreground figures are dashed in with a few flicks of the brush, their movement bringing the scene to life.

We don't know who painted this small scene, but it has similarities to those created by Guardi. His imaginary views, known as capricci, were inspired by the areas surrounding his home city of Venice. This artist has used broad brushstrokes to describe cloud formations, and simple blocks of colour for the buildings and beach.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

A Ruin Caprice

Date

19th century

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 13.4 x W 19.4 cm

Accession number

NG2905

Acquisition method

Bequeathed by Lady Lindsay, 1912

Work type

Painting

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The National Gallery, London

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