Artwork

Landscape with a Woman at a Well

Landscape with a Woman at a Well, by Canaletto, ink, 1740
Landscape with a Woman at a Well, by Canaletto, ink, 1740

Landscape with a Woman at a Well is an ink print by the Baroque artist Canaletto. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Landscape with a Woman at a Well is an etching created by Canaletto around 1740, showcasing his versatility beyond his renowned cityscapes and vedute in a more imaginative landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a serene rural scene with a woman at a well, enveloped by lush vegetation and distant buildings, including a possible religious structure, evoking tranquility.

Technique & Style

Executed in a range of grays, the work demonstrates Canaletto's etching skill, with nuanced use of light and shadow, characteristic of his printmaking explorations in the mid-18th century.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1740, this etching is part of Canaletto's concurrent engagement with printmaking alongside his painting practice, though specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

This piece reflects Canaletto's occasional departure into imaginary, blended architectural and natural compositions, contrasting with his more typical realistic vedute.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of this etching are not provided, it contributes to the broader understanding of Canaletto's technical proficiency and artistic range in 18th-century European art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Canaletto

Artist

Canaletto

Giovanni Antonio Canal (18 October 1697 – 19 April 1768), commonly known as Canaletto (Italian: ), was an Italian painter from the Republic of Venice, considered an important member of the 18th-century Venetian school.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.