A Capriccio of Ruins by the Lagoon

Francesco Guardi

Associated Names
Francesco Guardi

Artist, Venetian, 1712 - 1793

The image shows a vertical landscape seen from an elevated viewpoint. The horizon is suggested by a horizontal line just below the center, where the faint outline of water and possibly a sail can be seen. Close to us, there is a sketchy formation of lines and patches resembling natural and architectural elements, such as trees and ruins with arches, using loose and expressive brushstrokes typical of a quick ink and wash drawing. The color palette is subtle, mainly consisting of soft browns and muted creams, creating a gentle sepia tone throughout the piece. The overall composition is framed by a thin margin.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown and gray wash on laid paper; laid down

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 12.8 x 7.5 cm (5 1/16 x 2 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1986.64.1


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Private Collection, Florence, in 1971. (Artemis Fine Arts, New York); acquired 1986 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1971

  • Le Dessin Venitien au XVIIIe Siècle, Galerie Heim, Paris, 1971, no. 158.

Bibliography

1975

  • Morassi, GUARDI, 1975, no.495.

Wikidata ID

Q64562387

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