The Arcade of the Libreria, Looking Toward San Giorgio Maggiore 1712 - 1793

Francesco Guardi made this pen and wash drawing to depict The Arcade of the Libreria, looking toward San Giorgio Maggiore, in Venice. Venice in the 18th century was a city defined by its relationship to water, but also by its patronage of the arts and its carnival culture. We can see in this sketch that the artist sought to capture the architecture of the Libreria, and also to suggest the street life that animated the city. The church of San Giorgio Maggiore peeks through the arcade, reminding us of the relationship between sacred spaces and secular life. Guardi often painted views of Venice for wealthy tourists, and was also commissioned to paint the Doge's official celebrations. Art production was linked to social class, wealth, and power. To understand Guardi's work better, we can consult historical maps, tourist guides, and carnival ephemera. His art shows us that it is always shaped by social context.