Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Venice" by Henri Edmond Cross is a captivating example of Neo-Impressionism, demonstrating the artist's exceptional skill in capturing light and color. Cross, originally born as Henri-Edmond Delacroix in 1856, adopted the pseudonym to both distinguish himself and avoid confusion with the famous Romantic painter Eugène Delacroix.

Visual Description:

The painting depicts a serene view of Venice, one of the most romantic and picturesque cities in the world. The scene is bathed in radiant sunlight, casting reflections on the tranquil waters of the canals. Cross uses a meticulous technique known as pointillism or divisionism, characterized by the application of small, distinct dots of color that blend together when observed from a distance.

In "Venice," this technique results in a shimmering, almost ethereal quality. The city's iconic architecture, gondolas, and bridges are suggested with lively dabs of blues, greens, yellows, and reds, giving the composition a rhythmic and harmonious balance. The sky and water are fused in a symphony of light and hue, embodying the shimmering atmosphere and luminous qualities that Cross aimed to achieve.

Historical Context and Artistic Movement:

Henri Edmond Cross was a leading figure in the Neo-Impressionist movement, an evolution of Impressionism that focused on scientific theories about color and light. Influenced by Georges Seurat and Paul Signac, Cross embraced pointillism to enhance the vibrancy and luminosity of his work. "Venice" exemplifies these principles, showcasing his ability to convey light and atmosphere through meticulous color application.

Career and Artistic Development:

"Venice" fits into Cross's career as an exploration of idyllic landscapes and urban scenes, focusing on the interplay of light and color. The painting likely dates from the early 1900s when Cross had fully developed his distinctive pointillist technique. During this period, Cross spent considerable time in the south of France, absorbing the intense Mediterranean light, which profoundly influenced his palette and technique.

Location and Cultural Significance:

The original painting is housed in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, a museum renowned for its vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. As part of this esteemed collection, "Venice" is a testament to Cross's contribution to the Neo-Impressionist movement and his mastery of capturing the ephemeral qualities of light.

Additional Noteworthy Details:

Cross's depiction of Venice is not merely a topographical representation but an evocative study of the city's unique light and atmosphere. The painting is remarkable for its harmonious composition, vivid color contrasts, and delicate treatment of light, making it a significant work within both Cross's oeuvre and the broader Neo-Impressionist movement. The precision of the pointillist technique fosters a sense of luminosity and vibrancy, which invites viewers to experience Venice in a new, almost dreamlike way.