Studio of Francesco Guardi

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is in good condition, with no major damages apparent. It is not too dirty. The paint is thinning slightly in the sky. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows broad restrengthening, and small spots of repainting throughout the sky. There are scattered retouchings also throughout the architecture and figures. This lot is offered in a gilt wood frame with part moulded part carved decoration, with a few knocks.
"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 view looks south from the Piazzetta towards the island and church of San Giorgio Maggiore, and is framed on the left by the Palazzo Ducale and on the right by Jacopo Sansovino's famous Libreria. A broadly similar view, taken from a similarly low viewpoint is in the Wadsworth Atheneum, Hartford, Connecticut, (A. Morassi, Guardi. I Dipinti, Milan 1993, vol. I, p. 379, cat. no. 366, reproduced vol. II fig. 396). Morassi regards the Wadsworth canvas as a mature work of around 1770-80. The view was evidently very popular with Guardi's patrons and and other variants are in recorded by Morassi in the City Museum and Art Gallery, Glasgow and in Milanese and Parisian private collections.