View of the Riva degli Schiavoni Venice

In the age of the Grand Tour—travel to the famous sites of continental Europe that marked the “finishing touch” of every young gentleman’s education—art became the ultimate souvenir. Born Antonio Canal, Canaletto was the most distinguished 18th-century Italian painter who specialized in vedute (views), paintings of a city or town faithful enough to identify the location. His compelling views of Venice recorded the city for wealthy tourists of the 1700s. The flicker of light on the water, the stance of the gondoliers, and the clearly delineated buildings against a crisp blue sky demonstrate his passion for details and contribute to a sense of the city extending beyond the view shown. The pink 14th-century Doge’s Palace on the left and the Bridge of Sighs, just visible behind the Ponte della Paglia in the shadow to the right of the Palace, are still landmarks for visitors to Venice today.