The Charm of Venice | A City Captured Through the Eyes of Artists

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Its charm lies not only in its grand palazzos and majestic basilicas but in the quieter moments too—the play of light on water, the bustling life along its canals, and the stillness of its historic streets at dusk. As these views evolve and change, so too does the art that immortalizes them. 

^{Follower of Canaletto (£10,000-15,000)}

The charm of Venice is woven into the fabric of each piece of art that has been created there. Each brushstroke reflects a personal, intimate feeling for the city, whether it be of a fleeting moment at sunset or the grand spectacle of a festival. For centuries, artists have endeavoured to capture the unique light, the shifting reflections in the canals, and the architecture that makes Venice so distinct. These works of art hold a special magic, reflecting not just the physical grandeur of the city, but the emotional connection that the artist has with it.

Even today, when millions of visitors have come and gone, Venice remains a timeless source of inspiration. Whether seen through the eyes of a 19th-century painter or a contemporary artist, every inch of this magnificent city has been documented—each angle, each view, from day to night.

^{Manner of the Master of Langmatt Foundation Views (£800-1,200)}

One need only reflect on a few of the remarkable works available in Sworders' Old Master, British and European Art Auction on November 19 to appreciate the lasting impact of Venice on the artistic imagination. Take, for example, Lot 101, an oil on canvas depicting the Grand Canal, Venice, with the Palazzo Balbi. Painted in the manner of the Master of the Langmatt Foundation Views, it captures the grandeur of Venice’s waterway, its timeless beauty reflected in the stillness of the water.

^{Carlo Grubacs (Italian, c.1812-1870) (£20,000-30,000)}

Then, there is Lot 169, a stunning depiction of the 1838 festivities held on the Grand Canal in honour of Emperor Ferdinand, showing the iconic Palazzo Foscari and Palazzo Balbi. Carlo Grubacs, an Italian artist, invites the viewer into this lively historical moment with vibrant colours and meticulous detail. It’s a window into a bygone era, capturing not just the architecture but the very spirit of celebration that once filled the canals of Venice.

^{Alexander Jamieson (1873-1937) (£1,500-2,500)}

For a more modern take, Lot 170, painted by Alexander Jamieson in 1931, offers a view of Venice from the deck of the SS ‘Orford’. The artist’s perspective adds a contemporary touch to the timeless landscape, providing a fresh but no less captivating interpretation of Venice’s iconic canals and buildings.

^{Antonietta Brandeis (Czech-Italian, 1849-1926) (£2,000-3,000)}

Also featured is Lot 173, a delicate piece by Antonietta Brandeis, entitled La Porta de Giardino, which captures a quiet, serene moment in Venice. The artist’s love for the city is evident in the way she handles the light, creating a feeling of calm and intimacy that perfectly reflects the slower pace of life found in the hidden corners of Venice.

^{▲ Antoine Bouvard (French, 1875-1957) (£2,500-3,500)}

Lastly, Lot 322, a stunning oil painting by Antoine Bouvard titled A Venetian Canal at Sunset, exemplifies the artist's mastery of light and shadow. The sun setting over the canals provides a breathtaking contrast of warm tones, further demonstrating the allure Venice holds for painters.

These works, each with its own unique view of Venice, provide not just a snapshot of a moment in time, but a reflection of the personal connections that artists have had with the city. From grand celebrations to quiet reflections, each piece offers a glimpse into the soul of Venice—a city that continues to inspire and be adored by all who visit, and those who attempt to capture its essence on canvas.

Tuesday 19 November | 10am

pictures@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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