En brønd i en gård ved siden af hotel Aquila Nerva, Verona 1896

This quick sketch of a well in Verona was made by Niels Larsen Stevns, sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. We can see the artist was interested in the daily life and urban infrastructure of Italian cities. This sketch, with its quick strokes and attention to detail, is more than just a depiction of a well, it's a snapshot of a particular time and place. Italy, during this period, experienced rapid urbanization and modernization. Verona, with its rich history and architectural landmarks, became a popular destination for northern European artists, who were drawn to the country's picturesque scenery and cultural heritage. To truly understand the significance of this sketch, we might delve into the travel patterns and artistic networks of the time, using sources such as letters, travel journals, and exhibition catalogs. It’s by understanding the wider social and institutional context in which art is made that its meanings emerge.