The Grand Canal, Venice, Looking Southeast, with the Campo della Carità to the Right

Canaletto sketched Venice extensively outdoors, later using these on-site drawings to construct finished views such as this one in his studio. Although the bell tower shown here has since collapsed, the church and former convent beside it still stand and today house the Galleria dell’Accademia. The scene remains recognizable from nearly the same vantage point as the modern Accademia Bridge. The artist’s methodical way of rendering the rippling canal surface—so regular it becomes rhythmic—emerged as a hallmark of his style in the 1730s.

This work belongs to a set of 20 Venetian views likely painted for Joseph Smith (ca. 1674–1770), who served as British consul in Venice from 1744 to 1760. Canaletto and his patrons, especially his English collectors, often conceived such paintings in series, building visual “archives” of the city that ranged from celebrated landmarks to lesser-known churches and palaces. Although each location can be precisely identified, Canaletto did not hesitate to adjust architecture or shift perspectives slightly, ensuring that buildings could be seen to their best advantage or that a particular canal would open into an ideal view.

P.S. From Renaissance to Impressionism, see how Venice inspired famous artists!

P.P.S. Love getting lost in beautiful places? Our Landscapes 50 Postcards Set is full of serene views and sweeping scenery—ideal for anyone who enjoys a quiet moment of escape.