“View of the Church of Santa Maria della Salute, on the Grand Canal, Venice, with the Dogana beyond,” painted by David Roberts in 1851, is a Romantic and Orientalist cityscape. This artwork captures the grandeur and architectural splendor of Venice, reflecting the artist’s fascination with the city’s iconic landmarks and the atmospheric effects of its setting.
The artwork illustrates the majestic Church of Santa Maria della Salute, situated prominently along the Grand Canal. The church’s large domes and intricate façade dominate the composition, exhibiting the grandeur of Venetian Baroque architecture. The adjacent buildings and bustling activity on the canal create a lively urban scene, emphasizing the city’s vibrant energy. The atmospheric depiction, with soft, light hues and delicate brushwork, enhances the romantic quality of the piece. In the background, the Dogana building adds depth and context to the cityscape, framing the church in its historical and cultural milieu. The play of light and shadow, combined with the architectural detail, makes this a quintessential representation of Venice during the Romantic era.