The Locks at Dolo
Original title: The Locks at Dolo, an oval-shaped basin with boats at center, buildings on either side, a fruit vendor and groups of figures in the foreground, from "Views" (Vedute altre prese da i luoghi altre ideate da Antonio Canal)
kurzbeschreibung
Canaletto's etching from 1735–46 captures the sluices at Dolo: an oval basin with boats, framed by buildings and busy activity. It belongs to his series 'Vedute altre prese da i luoghi altre ideate da Antonio Canal' and counts among his vedute. This sheet is the second state of three and measures 29.9 × 42.9 cm at the plate.
Description
An oval basin anchors the view, surrounded by structures of various kinds. On the left appears a gateway with a column and relief; on the right, houses with roofs and chimneys. In the foreground, a fruit seller stands on a platform, with groups of figures in traditional dress nearby. Light falls from above, creating a clear, bright atmosphere. The etching technique shows in the delicate lines and hatching.
Context
The etching series 'Vedute altre prese da i luoghi altre ideate da Antonio Canal' was made in the 1730s and 1740s, when Canaletto increasingly turned to printmaking alongside painting. It combines actual views—such as the sluices at Dolo on the Brenta—with invented vedute. The prints were meant to bring his work to a wider public and circulated in Venice and beyond. The second state shows reworkings that suggest careful development of the plate.
Impact
Clear lighting and precise rendering of architecture and figures evoke a quiet, everyday mood. The fine linework creates a lively texture that draws the eye into the image. Overall, the sheet feels balanced and harmonious—an example of Canaletto's blending of reality and idealization.
Technique
In etching, lines are incised into a copper plate and then bitten with acid. The second state of three shows possible reworkings or strengthening of lines, increasing detail. Precise linework and fine hatching characterize Canaletto's prints.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)