The metal band running down the front of a gondola has an “S”-shaped curve to it,
echoing the shape of the Grand Canal as it cuts through the island of Venice.
The six prongs sticking out the front represent Venice’s six sestieri,
or districts — and the prong that’s facing backwards symbolizes Giudecca,
an island just south of the main Venetian island that’s always been part of Venice.

The flourish on the top of the six prongs echoes the Doge’s cap.
The little arch that’s made between the flourish and the top of the six prongs, that’s the Rialto Bridge.