Piazza San Marco, Venice

Details

Descriptive Terms

paintings (visual works)
canvas
oil paint (paint)
Painting

Label

From "A Family Collects: Paintings and Sculpture from the Codman House," Concord Museum, 1993-1994: Both the event recorded in this view of the Piazza San Marco in Venice and the artist who painted it are unknown. The stage, with its cupola-like tower and the seating next to the Doge's Palace, are temporary structures erected for some theatrical production or carnival event. Charles Russell Codman wrote in his catalog that he bought the painting as the work of Canaletto, but reluctantly agreed with those who thought it was by his pupil, Francesco Guardi. It is more likely the work of another unidentified follower of Canaletto.
"Artful Stories": This painting was acquired by Charles Russell Codman (1784–1852), son of John Codman III, whose portrait hangs in the third gallery. Like many connoisseurs, Codman wanted a classic scene of Venice as a marker of his good taste. He initially believed that this work was by Canaletto (1697–1768), but eventually realized that the brushwork lacks that Venetian master’s vitality. He reattributed it to Francesco Guardi (1712–1793), but that was also incorrect. We now believe it was likely done by a follower of Canaletto.

Associated Person

Codman, Charles Russell, 1784-1852

Associated Building

Subject Piazza San Marco,

Maker

Formerly attributed to Canaletto, Antonio, 1697-1768 (Artist)

Location of Origin

Venice, Italy

Dimensions

33 x 41 x 2 1/2 (HxWxD) (inches)

Credit Line

Bequest of Dorothy S.F.M. Codman

Accession Number

1969.849

Places