Gezicht op het San Marcoplein 1671 - 1695

Adam Perelle made this print of the Piazza San Marco in Venice sometime in the later 17th century. At this time, Venice was a major center for printmaking, and views like this one were popular souvenirs for wealthy tourists on the Grand Tour. Look closely, and you'll see that Perelle's image is more than just a straightforward record. The figures are carefully arranged, almost like actors on a stage. By manipulating the scene in this way, Perelle presents Venice not just as a real place, but also as an idea: a center of commerce, culture, and power. The Doge's Palace on the right was the heart of Venetian government, while the Basilica di San Marco was a symbol of the city’s religious faith. Understanding Perelle's work involves looking at the broader history of Venice, including its economic system and the structure of its government. Art historians consult guidebooks, maps, and other printed materials from the period to understand how places like Venice were represented and understood. In this way, we see how art shapes our perception of the world and the social structures within it.