Canaletto was the first great Venetian view painter, specialising in topographical and imaginary landscapes. His work was much sought after by British visitors to Venice and he spent the years 1746-55 in England. This picture probably dates from around 1730. It shows the view from Guidecca island towards the 'Basin of St Mark' with the principal public buildings of Venice, the Customs House, Campanile, St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace.
