In 1746, he moved to England where he produced views of London during a time of great change. He included the building of Westminster Bridge, residences and parks. He transposed his taste for topography to views of England, especially of London. He stayed for nine years, painting upwards of 48 views, mostly of the city and the Thames. We can see how Londoners wander, meet and part. They walk singly and in pairs. They stand and chat. Our eye wanders between them.
In Canaletto´s London, the atmosphere is always clear, the river sparkling. It never rains, the light is mild and the clouds are decorative. This, of course, was deliberate.
Obviously, he enjoyed observing and recording the world around him, so now take time to enjoy some of his paintings.
Westminster Abbey
