A Regatta on the Grand Canal

This work depicts the annual carnival regatta in Venice. Some of the figures in the foreground wear the 'bauta', a costume of white mask and black cape which was typically worn during the carnival. The painting shows the one-oared light gondola race. The arms of the Doge Alvise Pisani, who ruled from 1735-41, are visible on the 'macchina della regatta' or floating pavilion on the left, from which coloured flags were presented to the winners. This painting is a companion piece to Canaletto's 'Venice: The Basin of San Marco on Ascension Day' of the same date.