Anne Redpath, R.S.A., A.R.A.

In October 1963, Redpath spent two weeks in Venice with her eldest son Alastair. She had been to Venice four decades earlier but had previously been uninspired to paint the city earlier in her career. Her wide ranging travels gave her more than enough visual stimulation for her subject matter and the often painted landscapes and seascapes of Venice perhaps dulled the prospect of depicting the city. But as Redpath herself commented, 'I don't voluntarily choose subjects, rather they choose me.' The jewel-like, darkened, Byzantine interior of St Mark's Basilica captivated Redpath on this return trip.

The present painting conveys Redpath's concern with colour contrast and form above all else. There is no sense of natural light or reference to atmospheric conditions. The rich golden tracery and explosive blue and red pigments of the doorway are of paramount importance. Redpath was also struck by Catholic imagery, seen here with the angels appearing in the centre of the composition. But they are most striking for their golden halos and wings rather than their symbolism.

Doorway in St Mark's, Venice was included in the exhibition of Redpath's Venice subjects held at The Lefevre Gallery the following April. The show, the painter's last, was a great success and all the works sold within the first two days.