Titian In Venice II

We've already discussed some of the works of art left by great Venetian Renaissance master Titian around Venice but there are many more examples to consider. In fact, you could spend days just following his trail all around the majestic city. This is actually a rather good way to explore the buildings of Venice that might not otherwise make it on to your itinerary. It might seem like a trip to Italy features too many visits to churches and that one church is very much the same as another but this is not the case. These are not merely religious buildings but great works of art with limitless joys and secrets to bestow should you look a little more closely. Popping in to see a Titian on display gives you an opportunity to also take in some of the most beautiful parts of the city and some of her loveliest buildings. Just find a vacation rental in Venice and get exploring!

One of Titian's most famous and wonderful works is, in fact, on display in a church in Venice. His “Assumption of the Virgin” is the altarpiece of the high altar of the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. This was his first major commission in Venice and it broke with tradition, presenting something more dynamic and vibrant that continues to capture hearts. The work shows Mary rising from the earthly plane below into the light of heaven with a clear separation of the two aesthetically and physically by the band of clouds and cherubs which lift the Virgin upwards. A clamouring, dramatic piece, it captures the confusion and momentousness of the occasion perfectly.

Another work by Titian is housed in the same church. This is his “Pesaro Madonna” altarpiece which is displayed on the north wall of the nave. Commissioned for Jacopo Pesaro whose family owned the chapel in which it is still displayed, it depicts its patron kneeling before the Virgin and being presented to her by St Peter. She is shown as the Madonna of the Stairs and this indicates Pesaro's desire for her intercession on his own path to heaven. Once again, Titian broke with tradition and showed his innovative spirit by placing the Virgin to one side rather than in the centre – favouring giving the painting a sense of depth and movement over decorum and the done thing.

By visiting just this church and the church of Santa Maria della Salute from our previous article, you will have seen two of the loveliest buildings in Venice and many, many great works by this great Master.