Jean-Baptiste van Moer

Hemmericourt de Grunne Collection, Château d'Aeltre, Belgium ;
Thence by descent to the current owners

The painting sits on its original canvas. The horizontal stretcher left a light mark on the canvas which would benefit from a light re-tensioning. Two minor losses appear in the sky (in the middle and on the right). Under UV light, a small repaint appears in the upper right by the frame. Perfect condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Van Moer participates to the International Exhibition in Paris in 1855, supported by the Belgium ambassador. Queen Victoria, impressed by the painter's quality landscapes, instantly commissions several drawings. Van Moer's career is launched. He travels all over Europe and paints monumental views of Venice and other towns. The Royal Palace of Brussels keeps views of Venice, purchased by Leopold II.

This spectacular view of Venice, as well as the next lot, were commissioned directly to the painter by the ancestor of the present owners to decorate the Castle of Aeltre (Château d'Aeltre), in Belgium.