Portraits of Canaletto and Visentini
Original title: Portraits of Canaletto and Visentini
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike the usual standalone portrait, this 1735 etching by Antonio Maria Visentini brings together two artist likenesses in oval frames, linked by lavish ornament. The print, of which three states exist and this is the first, measures 27.2 × 42.9 cm (plate). Shown are the painter Canaletto and Visentini himself, both identified as Venetian citizens.
Description
A symmetrical layout places two oval portraits left and right, with a smaller oval containing an allegorical figure between them. Floral and ornamental elements cover the frames and extend across the entire width. Beneath the portraits appear the names "Antonius Canaletto, Originis Civis Venetus" and "Antonius Visentini, Venetus." The sheet is black and white; light and shadow are created by fine hatching.
Context
Made in Venice in 1735, when Canaletto already enjoyed international renown for his vedute. Visentini, active as both architect and painter, conceived the sheet as a frontispiece for a series of engravings after paintings by Canaletto, commissioned by the English collector Joseph Smith. The portraits emphasize the artistic connection between Visentini and Canaletto and were meant to represent both in this publication project.
Impact
The symmetrical arrangement and rich ornamentation give the sheet a formal, representative air. Precise hatching and calm linework create a dignified atmosphere that pays respect to the artists depicted. The monochrome execution draws attention to the details of the portraits and the decorations.
Technique
For this etching, the drawing was incised into a metal plate etched with acid. Printing was in black and white on paper; the plate measures 27.2 × 42.9 cm, the sheet 38.4 × 54.3 cm. The process allows fine lines and hatching, which were used for the detailed rendering of the ornaments and portraits.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)