In 1882, George and Belle Smith embarked on a European journey to expand their remarkable art collection. Originally planned as a two-year exploration, their travels continued for nearly four years as they immersed themselves in the art, culture, and history of Europe.

The couple spent more than two years living in Venice, Italy, where they acquired many of the paintings featured in this gallery and the museum lobby. These works showcase the beauty of Venetian life and the talent of 19th-century Italian artists, including Noè Bordignon, Raffaele Mainella, Pietro Pajetta, Pasquale Ruggiero, and Ettore Tito.