Stadsgezichten van Venetië 1833

N. Pertsch created this artwork, “Stadsgezichten van Venetië,” using engraving techniques to capture various cityscapes of Venice. The arrangement of twelve vignettes on the paper creates a structured yet playful composition. The monochromatic palette emphasizes tonal variations, which invite a detailed inspection of each scene. Each vignette functions almost like a postcard, capturing distinct views and moments within Venice. This pictorial strategy reflects an emerging modern desire to capture, catalogue, and commodify visual experiences of place. Light and shadow are carefully modulated across each scene. The architectural structures and candid snapshots of Venetian life are rendered with precision. The artist seems interested in documenting the city in its everyday reality. The semiotic function here lies in transforming Venice into a collection of accessible images. This artwork not only represents Venice but also participates in constructing a modern perception of urban space as a collection of views and experiences.