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We have a magnificent view of the Grand Canal in Venice during the annual regatta, which was held on 2 February and attracted large numbers of visitors each year. All eyes are on the one-oared gondolas racing up the middle of the canal. Just right of centre two craft swing around the bend, tilted and almost touching, trying to catch up with the leaders. Another boat follows on the far right. Spectators cheer from windows and balconies, from gondolas and lavishly decorated bissone (eight- or ten-oared boats).

Canaletto has captured the drama of the event, with spectators and architecture laid out at a steep angle that recedes sharply into the distance and focuses our eye on the race. The animated crowd and the boats jostling for position help to create a feeling of excitement, while the ripples on the canal’s surface, which may look sketchy close up, give the water depth and movement from a distance.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

A Regatta on the Grand Canal

Date

about 1740

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 122.1 x W 182.8 cm

Accession number

NG4454

Acquisition method

bequeathed by Lord Revelstoke, 1929

Work type

Painting

The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

This venue is open to the public. Not all artworks are on display. If you want to see a particular artwork, please contact the venue.

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Artist or maker

Canaletto

1697–1768

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