The garden

Despite being densely urbanised, the Venetian islands have gardens - of course most of them are behind Patrician palaces. Those who can afford it have villas built on the Terraferma, the Venetian mainland territories.

Gardens are a 16th century trend and Tintoretto has included some of the design principles here. The goal is a fusion of art and nature, of order and wilderness. Statues like those Tintoretto places in the background are a considered a compulsory artistic element. He uses trellises, the wall of roses and perspective as organising factors.

Several writers of the time insist a garden ought to include all species of regional flora and fauna. Tintoretto points to this with the ducks, bird and stag. The animals serve too as a reminder of Eden. Artists from the Renaissance on also aim to include a rebus or puzzle in their work, adding intellectual, social or political comment.

Tintoretto isn’t stingy with his clues: pearls signifying Venus, a practically empty reflection in the mirror indicating transience. The picture allows for a Christian interpretation as well. Mirrors and water represent purity and roses are associated with the Mary, Mother of God.