The Piazzetta
The drawings were probably made by Canaletto to give Smith a general impression of the intended drama of the finished compositions. In both these drawings, Canaletto opened out the space between two monumental columns in the Piazzetta (‘little Piazza’), allowing for a view of the churches in the distance.
Canaletto (Venice 1697-Venice 1768)
The Piazzetta, looking towards Santa Maria della Salute c.1723-4
Pen and ink, over some free pencil | 23.2 x 18.2 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 907445
