«William Congdon is the only painter since Turner, who has understood Venice, its mystery, its poetry and its passion. He has a modern way of expressing himself, but his insight is as old as the city itself. He has been able to gather up the emotional essence of many centuries and has melted this vision into such a fantastic and beautiful dream that his paintings leave one breathless […] They are made of lava; they are blazing; they palpitate with the life and passion of all the Venetians who have long since gone to their final resting places.» 
