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Canaletto’s masterpiece, Venice, the Return of the Bucintoro on Ascion Day, painted around 1732, is set to headline Christie’s Old Masters Evening Sale on July 1, 2024, during the auction house’s Classic Week in London. This iconic work, which has been hidden from public view for much of its 300-year history, is expected to fetch over £20 million, making it one of the most significant sales of the year. The painting’s rarity, exceptional condition, and illustrious provenance contribute to its extraordinary value and appeal.
The painting depicts a grand Venetian celebration, the Festa della Sensa (Ascension Day), a key event in Venice’s civic and religious calendar. The Bucintoro, the ceremonial barge of the Doge of Venice, is shown returning to the city’s lagoon, surrounded by a flotilla of smaller boats and a bustling crowd of onlookers. This subject was a recurring theme in Canaletto’s oeuvre, but this particular work is considered the earliest and most significant rendition, marking the beginning of his fascination with Venetian pageantry. The painting’s composition is meticulously detailed, capturing the architectural grandeur of Venice, the shimmering waters of the lagoon, and the vibrant energy of the festival.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this painting is its pristine condition. Despite its age, the work has been exceptionally well-preserved, with the rich impasto of the figures and the intricate details of the architecture remaining intact. The painting’s surface retains its original texture, allowing viewers to appreciate Canaletto’s masterful brushwork and the depth of his artistic vision. This level of preservation is rare for a work of this age, particularly one that has been in private collections for centuries.
The painting’s provenance is equally impressive. It was first recorded in 1736 in the collection of Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister, where it hung at 10 Downing Street. This early 18th-century ownership makes it one of the first works by Canaletto to be displayed in an English home, predating King George III’s acquisition of the artist’s works by nearly 25 years. The painting’s journey from Walpole’s collection to its current appearance on the market is a testament to its enduring significance and desirability.
Canaletto, born Giovanni Antonio Canal, was one of the most celebrated painters of the Venetian school. Known for his precise and atmospheric depictions of Venice, he played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s image in the 18th century. His works were highly sought after by European aristocrats and collectors, particularly British patrons who were captivated by his romanticized views of Venice. This painting, created during the height of Canaletto’s career, exemplifies his ability to blend architectural accuracy with a sense of grandeur and spectacle.
Andrew Fletcher, Christie’s Global Head of the Old Masters Department, described the painting as a “true masterpiece” and a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity for collectors. He emphasized the painting’s significance as one of Canaletto’s finest works, noting its impeccable condition, historical importance, and the rarity of its appearance on the market. The painting’s sale is expected to attract significant interest from museums, private collectors, and institutions worldwide.
The painting will be exhibited in several key locations before the auction, allowing art enthusiasts to view it in person. It will be on display at Christie’s New York from May 3 to May 15, followed by a showing in Hong Kong from May 22 to May 28. The painting will then return to London for the pre-sale exhibition, which will run from June 27 to July 1. These exhibitions provide a unique opportunity for the public to experience the painting’s beauty and historical significance firsthand.
The sale of Canaletto’s Venice, the Return of the Bucintoro on Ascion Day is a landmark event in the art world. It not only highlights the enduring appeal of Canaletto’s work but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. The painting’s journey from 18th-century Venice to the global stage of contemporary art auctions is a testament to its timeless beauty and the universal appreciation of artistic excellence. As it prepares to find a new home, this masterpiece continues to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the power of art to transcend time and place.
