Warwick Castle; The East Front from the Courtyard 1748

Canaletto made this wash drawing of Warwick Castle using ink and watercolor on paper. The sepia tones and delicate washes give the ancient stonework a soft, almost dreamlike quality. But let’s consider this artwork in light of the social context of its making. Canaletto wasn't just capturing the likeness of a historic site. He was participating in the burgeoning tourism industry of the 18th century. Aristocrats on their Grand Tour, a rite of passage for wealthy young Europeans, sought out picturesque views and historical landmarks. Canaletto, with his skilled hand and eye for composition, provided them with souvenirs of their travels. The production of these drawings, often executed quickly and in multiples, speaks to the commodification of culture. While Canaletto's skill is undeniable, the art market's demands inevitably influenced his practice, blurring the lines between artistic expression and commercial enterprise. So, when looking at this artwork, it is important to consider the wider social issues of tourism and consumption during the eighteenth century.