Canaletto
1697–1768 · Rococo & Neoclassicism
Biography
Canaletto (Giovanni Antonio Canal, 1697–1768) was a Venetian painter famous for his detailed views of Venice, much sought after by British travellers on the Grand Tour. He also spent several years painting in England.
From the artist’s life
Zuane Antonio Canal, son of the scene painter Bernardo Canal, was born near the Rialto Bridge in Venice. His love of the canals stayed with him all his life, and he often depicted them in his paintings. As a fledgling painter he took the name Canaletto, meaning “little Canal”, out of respect for his artist father. Canaletto and his brother followed in their father’s footsteps and served their apprenticeship with him. Canaletto, however, did not care for the highly artificial theatrical style. He became increasingly disillusioned and solemnly vowed that when the time came he would paint only “from nature”.
From the page of The Grand Canal near the Rialto Bridge, Venice
Giovanni Antonio Canal perhaps used the artist’s name Canaletto to distinguish himself from his father, the theatre scene painter Bernardo Canal. As a young man Canaletto helped a great deal in his father’s workshop, and thanks to this youthful training he was able to apply theatrical perspective in his own paintings.
From the page of London Seen through an Arch of Westminster Bridge
Canaletto (1697–1768), born Giovanni Antonio Canal in Venice, was the most famous painter of 'vedute', detailed city views. He also spent nearly ten years in England painting London and the Thames.
From the page of The Bucintoro at the Molo on Ascension Day
