Artwork
Campo dei Frari, Venice
Campo dei Frari, Venice is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist John Singer Sargent. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Campo dei Frari is a watercolor drawing on wove paper, created by John Singer Sargent circa 1880, capturing a serene Venetian scene.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts a tranquil plaza in Venice, focusing on the interplay between low steps, calm water, and the daily presence of figures, evoking an intimate atmosphere of Venetian life.
Technique & Style
Sargent employed soft watercolor brushstrokes over graphite to achieve a peaceful ambiance, characteristic of the medium's expressive potential in conveying light and tranquility.
History & Provenance
Created around 1880, specific details on the work's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided in the available information.
Context
Part of Sargent's Venetian series, this piece reflects his interest in capturing the city's unique light and everyday life, common among artists drawn to Venice during the late 19th century.
Legacy
While not individually renowned, Campo dei Frari contributes to Sargent's broader reputation for skillfully portraying European landscapes and city scenes in watercolor.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Singer Sargent (; January 12, 1856 – April 15, 1925) was an American expatriate artist, considered the "leading portrait painter of his generation" for his evocations of Belle Époque and Edwardian-era luxury.
