Antonio Canale, the Venetian painter, usually called Canaletto, visited England in 1746, and remained about two years. During that time he produced many pictures and drawings, chiefly of London scenes. An inscription on the back of a picture of the Rotunda at Ranelagh (Nat. Gal. Cat. 1906, No. 1429) has been thought to prove that he was here in 1754.
By Canaletto, c. 1747 (1697-1768). Lent by H.M. the King.
5 VIEW DOWN RIVER FROM GARDEN OF OLD SOMERSET HOUSE.
Wash and pen drawing. 19 by 7¾ in.
By Canaletto, c. 1747 (1697-1768). Lent by H.M. the King.
6 [VIEW DOWN RIVER FROM WESTMINSTER.] Plate IV.
Pen drawing. 15½ by 5¼ in.
Rare example of Hollar’s pen-work, unfinished. The point of view is about that of the “King’s Bridge,” Westminster. In the distance old St. Paul’s is faintly pencilled. Signature on a plank to the left.
Wenceslaus Hollar, born at Prague, was brought to England by the Earl of Arundel in 1637, and worked under his patronage for years. In the Civil War he served under the Marquess of Winchester, and was taken prisoner at Basing House, but escaped to Antwerp. He afterwards returned, was appointed designer to the King, and spent the rest of his life here with an interval when he was sent by Charles II to Tangiers. A most industrious artist, we owe to him many fine etchings of London; died in poverty.
By W. Hollar (1607-1677). Lent by H.M. the King.