Venetië ontvangt de eerbewijzen van Neptunus 1745 - 1804

Editor: So, this etching, "Venetië ontvangt de eerbewijzen van Neptunus" from around 1745-1804 by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo... It’s incredibly detailed, but also quite strange. Neptune, Venice... I am honestly at a loss to understanding how they come together. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Ah, yes. Tiepolo was wonderful in using strange combinations of classical symbols to tell larger tales. When I look at it, I feel a swirl of Venice’s power and maritime influence crashing on the shores of myth. Can't you almost feel the sea spray from here? Notice how Venice, crowned and regal, receives tribute. Is she receiving, or bestowing a command? She isn't facing us as much as the direction where the staff in her hand is pointed. Almost as if to make sure something gets done. And who is doing something? Old beardy chops, right here! Editor: Neptune? He looks a little grumpy, though. I mean, I guess having to schlep a sack of coins everywhere could be tiresome. Is he like, forced to be Venice’s…ATM? Curator: I think it's even more poignant! It speaks to Venice's dependence on the sea, and also to its power over it. Is he surrendering those coins, or bestowing that responsibility? Tiepolo knew that to have real power meant understanding limitations of its source! Are those literal doubloons spilling, or possibilities awaiting the knowing navigator. I would also posit the "child" isn't a kid at all - its Venice's future Editor: That's an interesting point. So Venice's continued prosperity is up to this dynamic duo to manage the flow. Curator: Precisely! It is almost like Tiepolo, himself Venetian, wanted to say to Venetians: this moment cannot be take for granted. He is long dead. Venice still stands. The question he had, is answered! Editor: That adds a whole other layer. I’ll definitely be thinking about that image very differently now. Thank you!