The Main Square in Andria (Bari) 1803 - 1894

Editor: This is "The Main Square in Andria (Bari)," a pencil, charcoal, and watercolor drawing by Achille Vianelli, sometime between 1803 and 1894. The monochromatic palette creates a really interesting sense of depth, making the buildings seem to almost fade into the background, but what details strike you? Curator: Observe the composition. Vianelli masterfully employs linear perspective to draw the viewer's eye into the scene. The orthogonals converge towards a vanishing point that is subtly placed, not quite at the center. Notice how this directs attention to the interplay between the architectural forms and the human figures, establishing a visual rhythm. How does the distribution of light and shadow further contribute to the overall effect? Editor: It seems to emphasize the buildings, with the darker tones bringing them forward. Would the relatively light treatment of the crowd do something similar, pushing them back? Curator: Precisely. The use of chiaroscuro heightens the contrast between the architectural elements and the figures, creating a sense of depth and dimension. Furthermore, the varying textures, achieved through delicate pencil strokes and washes of watercolor, add layers of visual interest. Consider the lines that define the architecture, how might they affect the viewer? Editor: It does give the buildings a very formal, almost severe appearance. I now see that this isn't just a record of a place, it's very carefully constructed. Curator: Precisely, notice the lines’ direction and weight, their purpose is to provide a formal appearance of order to the piece’s organization, and also give order to how one observes the picture. Now can you reflect on your initial impressions in regard to our brief analysis? Editor: It makes me reconsider my sense of its depth and how Vianelli deliberately manipulated its structure. I am leaving with an elevated understanding of how to unpack cityscapes. Curator: Indeed, this study allows one to understand more about what makes Achille’s artwork pleasing to the eye, and through his use of lines and colors, one is allowed to enjoy looking at the work from more than one perspective.