Venice by Moonlight (or The Grand Canal at Dusk)
Painting on canvas • Attributed to or Manner of Martin Rico y Ortega or a member of the Venetian School such as Rubens Santoro.
Style & Movement
Academic Realism with Impressionist influence; Venetian Veduta tradition.
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing atmospheric glazing and alla prima techniques for water reflections.
Creation Period
Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (circa 1890–1910)
Dimensions & Format
Large-scale landscape format; estimated 100 x 180 cm including frame.
Subject Description
A tranquil evening scene on the Venetian lagoon or Grand Canal featuring a prominent gondola with figures under a canopy. A full moon is visible in the lavender-hued sky, with seagulls in flight and architectural silhouettes in the background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The canvas appears stable but shows signs of natural aging including minor surface grime and craquelure.
Estimated Market Value
$8,000 - $15,000 USD (depending on confirmed attribution).
Auction Estimate
$5,000 - $10,000 USD.
Provenance History
Unknown; characteristically appears to be part of a private collection or gallery inventory given the display context and wall covering.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the commercial and aesthetic appeal of Venetian cityscapes for the Grand Tour market, demonstrating the late 19th-century fascination with nocturnal atmospheric effects.
Notable Features
Substantial gilded cove frame; exceptional handling of the moon's reflection in the shifting water; large scale suggesting it was commission for a specific grand interior.
Condition Issues
Visible surface craquelure throughout the sky area; slight yellowing of the varnish; minor abrasions on the gilded frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning to remove dust and atmospheric pollutants; UV-filtered lighting; climate-controlled environment to prevent further expansion of craquelure.