Gezicht op de Basiliek van Santa Maria della Salute vanaf het water 1851 - 1924

Carel Nicolaas Storm van 's-Gravesande created this lithograph titled "Gezicht op de Basiliek van Santa Maria della Salute vanaf het water" which translates to "View of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute from the Water". It is a serene, almost ethereal rendering of Venice which reflects the artist's vision of the world, shaped by his experiences and beliefs as a member of the Hague School. This artistic movement sought to capture the atmosphere and mood of a scene, rather than a literal depiction. The choice to portray Venice, a city laden with historical and cultural significance, is especially interesting when considering van 's-Gravesande's background. As an artist rooted in Dutch traditions, how did he perceive and interpret this iconic Italian city? How did he situate himself within its narrative? The Basilica, a symbol of the city's resilience, is reflected in the water, blurring the lines between reality and reflection. This hints at the complexities and layers inherent in any representation of Venice. The emotional resonance of the work lies in its ability to evoke a sense of tranquility, while subtly prompting questions about cultural identity, historical perception, and the artist's own place within the story.