Untitled (43) c. 1890

Ferdinando Ongania made this photograph of the Doge’s Palace in Venice sometime in the late nineteenth century. This was a period when photography was rapidly changing, and institutions like museums and galleries were starting to collect and exhibit photographs as art. This image creates meaning through its visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. Venice, with its unique geography and rich history as a maritime republic, was a popular subject for artists and photographers. The Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venetian power and prestige, looms large in the frame. It makes us wonder: How was Venice transforming during this period of industrialization and modernization? Was Ongania commenting on the changing social structures of his time? Understanding the history of Venice, the development of photography, and the art market would help us to interpret this image better. It's crucial to remember that the meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.