By the end of the 18th century Venice, the great empire, had begun to fall into ruin. The once coveted sophistication and ordered oligarchy admired across Europe (especially in Britain) was a shell of itself in the wake of its fall to Napoleon in 1797. So, begins the Romantic era in Venice. This was an era that revelled in the decay of old political systems, an era filled with artists challenging traditional notions of power and saw beauty in their ruin. This lecture looks at the work of JMW Turner and his inspiration, the poet Lord Byron. It will explain and explore what Venice meant to them, how they saw beauty in its downfall while maintaining the concept of its elegant sophistication.

NOTE:

This video is free of charge for our members. If you are a member, please, use this link to access the free version. If you want to become a member – here you will find more details about our plans and will be able to join us!