St. Mark’’s Square
circa 1898-99
Maurice Prendergast captures the bustling energy of Venice's St. Mark's Square, but with a playful twist: three massive Italian flags dominate the foreground, practically blocking the view! Painted around 1899, this piece showcases his signature Post-Impressionist style, where the crowd is reduced to tiny, colorful dots scurrying around the plaza like ants. He was fascinated by public gatherings, often treating figures as decorative patterns rather than detailed individuals. The flags, bearing the crest of the House of Savoy, suggest a national holiday, turning a simple city view into a vibrant celebration of Italian pride.
- Technique
- Watercolor and gouache
- Material
- Paper
Location: Art Institute of Chicago
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