“St. Mark’s Lion, Venice,” created by Maurice Prendergast around 1898 to 1899, is a watercolor on paper painting associated with the Impressionism movement. This cityscape artwork measures 45.72 by 27.31 centimeters and resides in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a nocturnal view of the iconic St. Mark’s Lion statue perched atop a column in Venice, Italy. The scene captures the essence of a bustling evening along a Venetian waterfront, characterized by the soft glow of numerous lanterns both on the shore and in the water, illuminating the boats and figures beneath. The shimmering reflections on the water and the diffuse treatment of light embody the Impressionist style, bringing an ephemeral quality to the nighttime scenery. The overall mood conveyed is one of serene vibrancy, encapsulating the nightlife of historic Venice.
