This fine art print is based on an original pen and pencil drawing of the Porta della Carta, or “Paper Portal”, at the Doge's Palace in Venice. It is possibly my favourite doorway in the world – an extraordinary piece of architecture that can be easily overlooked despite standing in one of the busiest and most photographed parts of the city.
The doorway is a beautiful example of late Gothic Venetian architecture, with intricate carving and sculpture surrounding the substantial wooden doors. At the top stands St Mark, while at the centre Francesco Foscari, the Doge of Venice, kneels before the winged lion of St Mark.
What fascinates me is the way such an extraordinary work of art sits almost humbly in the corner between the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica. Thousands of visitors pass through this area every day, often stopping only long enough to take a quick photograph before moving on to the next sight.
Personally, I could – and have – stood there for ages.
There is so much detail to discover in the stonework, sculpture and ornamentation that it rewards taking the time to really look. This drawing is my attempt to capture some of that intricate beauty and give this magnificent architectural gem the attention it deserves.
 
Subject: Porta della Carta, Venice, Italy
Medium: Giclée 12-colour pigment inks that carry a lightfastness of 100 years.
Paper: Archival Somerset Enhanced Velvet 255gsm paper.
Image sizes: A4 (21x30cm)
Paper sizes: Additional 2.5cm border all round
Limited print numbers: Yes, 25 of each
Framed: No
Original: No
Certificate of Authentication: Yes
Artist: Graham McKenzie-Smith
 
DELIVERY TIMES - Due to limitations of storage, any print orders are printed first by a third party. These can take up to two weeks upon which I shall despatch them on a 48 hour Tracked service. Customers shall be updated on estimated delivery timescale.