Michele Marieschi (1710-1743) - La Regata a Ca' Foscari

The regatta at Ca' Foscari is one of the most celebrated and significant etching and engraving works made by the Venetian vedutist Michele Marieschi. The work is part of the famous collection of 21 views titled Magnificentiores Selectioresque Urbis Venetiarum Prospectus, published in 1741.

Dimensions: 29.6 x 46 cm

The print depicts a spectacular boat race (the historic regatta) along the Grand Canal, right at the famous "volta de canal." On the left stands the majestic façade of Ca' Foscari, while opposite rises Palazzo Balbi. The central element of the composition is the sumptuous floating stage (the "regatta machine"), positioned near Ca' Foscari to host the authorities and accommodate the awarding of prizes. The drawing of the machine, characterized by temporary structures and catwalk apparatus, testifies to Marieschi's original activity as a theater set designer.

An example in contemporary print run on laid paper in good condition, after restoration of a patch in the upper right corner and a smaller one near the upper left corner (see photos). The work is trimmed along the lateral edge to the framing line; while, along the upper margin, about 1 cm of sky is missing and along the lower margin the signature is cut in half (see photos).

31 x 46 cm. The work is renowned for the exceptional use of accelerated perspective, a signature stylistic trait of Marieschi that allowed him to amplify the visual space of the Grand Canal, and for the strong ink contrasts that impart extraordinary liveliness to the crowd of gondolas and spectators.

Mauroner, 22. Succi, 18. Succi (1983), 295. Succi (1987), 15.