Canaletto (Giovanni Antonio Canal), (Italian, 1697-1768) - Vedute Altre Prese da i Luoghi Altre Ideate

Circa 1735-45; printed circa 1760-70. The rare, complete set of 31 etchings including title-page, circa 1735-44, on 18 sheets of laid paper, watermark Triple Crescent above Letter A and countermark Letters AS surmounted by a Fleur-de-Lys (cf. Bromberg 22, 42 & 43), fine, early and luminous impressions, a uniform and contemporary set of Bomberg's printing order D I (comparable to the album in Bassano del Grappa), printed circa 1760-70, at the Stamperia Pasquali, Venice, with wide margins
Each, plate size: 11 5/8 x 6 5/8 and 5 11/16 x 8 3/8 in. (29.6 x 42.7cm and 14.5 x 21.1cm)
Each, sheet size: 14 7/8 x 20 3/8 in. (37.7 x 51.8cm) 
[Bromberg 1-11, 13-16, 18-33]
(31)

Lot Essay

One of the most highly regarded Venetian painters of the 18th century, Giovanni Antonio Canal (Canaletto) also produced etchings, and the present lot - a complete set of 31 etchings with title page - is widely regarded as the famed Venetian artist's magnum opus. 

While much has been written about Canaletto's well-known patron Joseph Smith and his presumed role in persuading the artist to produce etched 'Veduta,' Canaletto certainly availed himself of the opportunity to turn to printmaking to increase exposure to his work and to address ever increasing patron demand. With its emphasis on not only capturing the effects of light and shade, but also imagination and invention - as specifically noted by Viscount Norwich - 'Vedute altre prese dai luoghi altre ideate' is an impressive addition to Canaletto's corpus and reveals his skills as an etcher, in addition to being one of the leading artists whose work is associated with the Grand Tour.