Rubens Santoro Italian, 1859-1942

Purchased by the father of the present owner

Original canvas. There is a small raised scratch just above the boats in the foreground with a corresponding dent on the reverse. This has been touched in with watercolour. There is a very faint hairline scratch in the sky upper left with a few minute, barely visible losses. Otherwise the painting is in very good condition. Held in a decorative plaster moulded gilt frame.
"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."

The beauty of Venice, the floating city, has been an inspiration to artists throughout the centuries, but the commercial draw for painters cannot be ignored either. By the turn of the twentieth century, tourism to Venice had increased vastly owing to improved communications, the growth of a leisured middle class, and the advent of bespoke travel agencies like Thomas Cook, spurring a huge demand for Venice views. Of course this phenomenon had its origins in the eighteenth century, when Grand Tourists patronised the likes of Canaletto and Guardi, but now the demand for views of the city was almost insatiable.

Rubens Santoro was one of many artists from all over Europe and beyond to settle in Venice in order to take advantage of this boom. Instantly recognisable and timeless views such as this one towards one of Venice's great landmarks, the Santa Maria della Salute, which also afforded a glimpse of the the quiet life of the back streets and canals, proved particularly popular, as they still do today.