Venetian Women

The city of Venice boasts an exceptional history within the arts and has long been considered one of the most glamorous and elegant regions in Europe.

Despite being born in Nuremburg, Germany, Durer clearly felt the same and visited the region in order to study all manner of elements of their society. This included the prominent fashion scene that he partially captures in this scene of two wealthy ladies seemingly have a morning stroll together. With most of their bodies covered, it is the clothing and accessories that are of particular interest in this drawing.

It is a reasonably light drawing, without strong lines that would add depth. It is easy on the eye and perhaps relatively quick to put together. His more detailed pieces would include white heightening and harsher lines to produce shadows and greater undulation across the anatomical features. It is their expressions and pose that leads us to assume that they are in a relaxed environment, possibly walking through a garden or side street, happily passing the time of day with each other.

Venice itself produced several notable artists through its own art school whilst also inspiring many others through its historic architecture and picturesque network of canals. Although there were several names across many centuries to take note of, the main Venetian School gave the world the likes of Tintoretto, Giorgione, Giovanni Bellini and Titian.