Rudolf von Alt

Although arguably best known for his depictions of his home city of Vienna, Von Alt travelled widely across Europe and was, somewhat unsurprisingly, drawn to the splendors of Venice on multiple occasions.

The present work, which dates to 1871, is imbued with an almost Impressionistic quality more akin to the work of John Singer Sargent, whose own depictions of Venice are predated by this watercolor by over two decades. In it Von Alt captures the wonderful play of light and movement created by the Grand Canal whilst simultaneously maintaining the architectural integrity of the location, which is an iconic site of Venice in its own right.

Comparable works including a magnificent watercolor by the artist depicting the Courtyard of the Doge's Palace, Venice have been sold in these rooms in recent years.¹

1. Sale, New York, Sotheby's, 20 May 2021, lot 92 (Sold $132,300)