The Dogana, Statue of Fortune by John Singer Sargent
Description: The Dogana, Statue of Fortune by John Singer Sargent captures a striking view of the Punta della Dogana, the historic customs house located at the entrance to the Grand Canal in Venice. Painted around 1902, this work features the prominent gilded statue of Fortuna, the Roman goddess of fortune, balancing on a golden sphere atop the Dogana. Sargent skillfully depicts the delicate play of light on the building's stone facade and the glittering waters of the lagoon, bringing out the details of the ornate architecture and the surrounding scene. The fluid brushstrokes and the subtle variation in tone convey the atmosphere of Venice in the early morning or late afternoon light, demonstrating Sargent’s deep understanding of both realism and impressionism.
Born in Florence to American expatriates, Sargent spent much of his artistic career traveling throughout Europe. Venice became a significant source of inspiration for him, and he often painted its canals, palazzos, and vibrant street life. Having trained under Carolus-Duran in Paris, Sargent developed a style that combined bold brushwork with an acute sensitivity to light and detail. His Venetian scenes, like The Dogana, Statue of Fortune, reflect a move away from his earlier portraiture, capturing the interplay between water, architecture, and light, and presenting the city as a living, dynamic space rather than a static historical relic.
Details:
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Location and Date Created: Venice, Italy, circa 1902.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: The Dogana, Statue of Fortune.
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Artwork Style: Realism with Impressionist influences.
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Subject/Topic: The Punta della Dogana with the Statue of Fortuna, focusing on the architectural details and atmospheric light of Venice's Grand Canal entrance.
