Campo dei Frari, Venice c. 1880

John Singer Sargent painted this watercolor of the Campo dei Frari in Venice during one of his many visits to the city. Painted in the late 19th or early 20th century, this image captures the atmosphere of Venice, a popular destination for artists and tourists alike. Sargent, an American expatriate, often depicted scenes of leisure and everyday life. Here, we see local women and other figures populating the square near the historic Frari church. The soft, muted tones of the watercolor evoke the city's unique light and atmosphere. Sargent’s choice of subject matter reflects the changing social dynamics of the time. As Venice became a major tourist destination, artists began to focus on capturing its picturesque qualities. The image invites us to reflect on the intersection of art, tourism, and the commodification of cultural experiences. By consulting historical records, letters, and travel accounts, art historians continue to explore the complex relationship between art and its social context.