The Portico with the Lantern, plate from "Views, some representing actual places, others imaginary", 1740-1745
Canaletto (Giovanni Antonio Canal)expand_more
Etchingexpand_more
Gift of Miss Eileen Bigelow and Mrs. O. H. Ingram, in memory of their mother, Mrs. Alice F. Bigelow, 1965expand_more P.13,320
Not on Viewexpand_more
In this imaginary scene, Canaletto visually linked dilapidated modern structures with ancient Roman remains, including a triumphal arch and temple. Overgrown with vines, the large, shadowy arches of the portico frame the luminous view, set near a harbor where ships are moored. A single, forgotten lantern hangs against the sky. Canaletto’s quivering lines amplify the bright, flickering light on aging stone and plaster walls.
At left, a bishop’s tomb (recognizable by the statue of a seated bishop on top) shows signs of neglect. Up on rooftop terrace, laundresses have started to hang sheets out to dry. At right, a drummer rests on his instrument while the rest of his troop looks expectantly for someone to disembark at the port.
Details
- Title
- The Portico with the Lantern, plate from "Views, some representing actual places, others imaginary"
- Artist Life
- (Venice), 1697–1768
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.13,320
- Catalogue Raisonne
- B. 10 ii/iii; De. 10 i/iii
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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