The Basin of Saint Mark's Square, with San Giorgio and the Giudecca, c.1774 (oil on canvas) 1774

Francesco Guardi painted this view of the Basin of Saint Mark's Square around 1774, using oil on canvas. It's a traditional medium, but Guardi’s application is distinctive. Look at the brushwork: loose, almost gestural. The material qualities of oil paint lend themselves beautifully to capturing the shimmering light and atmosphere of Venice. Guardi exploits this, creating a sense of fluidity and impermanence. He’s less concerned with precise architectural details than with capturing the overall impression of the scene. The handling of the paint, particularly in the sky, suggests a quick, spontaneous process. But don't be fooled, this was a commercial exercise: paintings of Venice like this were highly sought after by wealthy tourists. This speaks to the social context in which Guardi was working, catering to the demands of the market. The ‘work’ involved isn’t just Guardi's, but also that of the many tradespeople who supplied him with materials and supported the art market in Venice. Thinking about materials, making, and context encourages us to look beyond the surface of this painting, and to appreciate the complex interplay of artistic skill, economic forces, and social values that shaped its creation.