After Giovanni Antonio Canal, called Canaletto

The canvas has been relined, the paint surface is relatively clean, and the varnish is only slightly discoloured. There is some slightly discoloured retouching to reduce the appearance of craquelure in the sky on the left, and in the ceiling visible through the arch, upper right. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals very small areas of retouching in the lower left corner; in the column on the left margin; on the left of the arch, upper centre; above the cartouche on the right; in the foreground along the lower margin; and to a small diagonal scratch, measuring approx. 2 cm. above the beggar by the column. In overall good condition. Offered in a carved, gilt wood and black painted frame in good 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."

After the painting by Canaletto, presented by the artist to the old Accademia di Pittura e Scultura after his election there on 11 September 1763, now in the Galleria dell'Accademia, Venice (inv. no. 472).¹ Numerous versions of this composition exist, including three, probably autograph, reduced-size replicas: in the National Loan Collection Trust, London; the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, Cologne; and formerly with Stefano Barozzi, Venice.

1. See W.G. Constable, revised by J.G. Links, Canaletto. Giovanni Antonio Canal 1697–1768, Oxford 1989, vol. II, pp. 465–67, cat. no. 509, reproduced vol. I, plate 93.