(Peruvian, 1837-1927) A View of the [Canal della Giudecca] with shipping and views of [Chiesa dei Gesuati] and [San Giorgio Maggiore], signed lower left "F. del Campo./Venecia 1899", oil on canvas, 14-1/4 x 23-1/2 in.; original gilt wood and composition frame by Henry Schultheis Company, New York City (label verso), original stretcher and tacking edge, crackle, with some minor cupping, cleavage, and flaking in the upper right, recently cleaned; frame with minor abrasions. Notes: The tradition of the Grand Tour began in the 17th century and extended into the early 20th century. It afforded the European elite upper class, mainly young men, to gain exposure to the roots of Western civilization. The upper class in America also joined in this tradition, traveling throughout Europe with unlimited funds at their disposal and commissioning paintings to be shipped back to their homes as evidence of their broad journeys, cultural knowledge and affluence. One of the most sought after mementos of the Victorian era Grand Tour were views of Venice. Federico Del Campo had few rivals in the effort to provide the elite with stunning representations of both the unique Venetian architecture and the light variations found in this city. A native of Lima, Peru, Federico Del Campo showed great promise as an artist and was sponsored by a patron to study in Paris and later in Madrid. After traveling extensively and holding successful exhibitions in France and Spain, he settled in Venice and perfected his technique. Characteristic of his Venetian paintings are both strong atmospheric light and lively detail depicting the tourist laden city. This particular painting represents the popular view of San Giorgio Maggiore from the Canal della Giudecca. It shows a bustling city in strong light with a view of tall masted ships, reminiscent of a time when Marco Polo opened up trade between Asia and Europe for the first time by way of Venice. To the right, sunlight strongly hits the façade of the Chiesa dei Gesuati. This painting has been retained by the family since the time of their own Grand Tour and has never been previously offered.. Provenance: John Frederick and Elizabeth Maue, New York, New York/Jersey City, NewJersey; by descent in family

original stretcher and tacking edge, crackle, with some minor cupping, cleavage, and flaking in the upper right, recently cleaned; frame with minor abrasions