(Venice 1824–1890)
Venice, the Squero di San Trovaso with Venetians Celebrating the Redentore Feast, signed, dated Luigi Querena Venezia 1860, oil on canvas, 59.5 x 69.5 cm, framed

Provenance:
Private Collection Italy.

Luigi Querena studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice with Federico Moja (1802-1885), a painter of vistas and architecture. He specialised in traditional Venetian views such as the present lots, earning a reputation for reviving the subjects made popular by Canaletto. The Grand Tour phenomenon, which began in the 18th Century, led to the popularity of souvenir paintings by masters such as Canaletto and Guardi. Wealthy young men from northern European countries would travel to Italy, sparking great demand for these souvenir paintings. By the 19th Century, there was increased interest in paintings of Venetian views, following the decline of the Grand Tour and the introduction of a more general approach to tourism.

Querena, like Ciardi or Fragiacomo, depicted the lesser known of Venice, Venezia povera, away from Piazza San Marco and Canal Grande, as can be seen in works such as the present lot.

The first view shows the Squero di San Trovaso, an ancient boatyard where the traditional Venetian boats are built and repaired. It is one of the oldest in the city, and was first opened in the 17th Century. It lies on the Rio San Trovaso, next to the church of San Trovaso, which is visible in the background of the present picture. In the foreground, the artist depicts one of the most beloved festivals in Venice: the Festa del Redentore.
On the third Sunday of July, Venetians commemorate the end of the terrible plague of 1576 that killed 50,000 people and give thanks for the survival of the city.
After sundown, revellers fill festive boats adorned with lanterns as they watch the firework display. In the present picture, a group of people are travelling by boat to celebrate.