Memory of Venice: the Palazzo Ducale and the Piazzetta
1910
charcoal
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1910
charcoal
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a dimly lit Venetian scene. A grand building with arches and columns stands in the center, its details softened by shadow. The water below reflects faint light, and a few faint figures move along the edges—just dark shapes against the pale stone and dark sky. The artist used loose, sketchy lines to suggest depth, almost like quick notes rather than a finished drawing. The whole scene feels quiet and a little mysterious, like Venice at night. Next, check out the technique: scumbling to see how artists create texture with chalky strokes.
