Canaletto Achieves €37 Million at Christie’s London
· 2 min. read · by Christie's International Real Estate Madrid
At Christie’s, excellence in art and lifestyle go hand in hand. From Christie’s International Real Estate Madrid, we are proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone from our colleagues at Christie’s auction house: the sale of “Venice, the Return of the Bucintoro on Ascension Day” by Canaletto for £31.9 million (approx. €37 million) at our London saleroom.
A Venetian Masterpiece
Painted by Giovanni Antonio Canal, known as Canaletto, this extraordinary veduta captures the grandeur of one of Venice’s most iconic ceremonies: the return of the Bucintoro, the Doge’s ceremonial barge, on Ascension Day. The work is a masterclass in composition, precision, and luminous detail—hallmarks that define Canaletto’s legacy as one of the great painters of the 18th century.
A Work with Historic Provenance
Adding to its value is the painting’s exceptional provenance. Originally acquired by Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first prime minister, the work hung in 10 Downing Street as early as 1736. Having only appeared at auction twice in the past 300 years, it now sets a new benchmark as the most valuable Canaletto ever sold.
A Work with Historic Provenance
The sale took place on 1 July 2025 during Christie’s Old Masters Evening Sale in London. Five international collectors competed for the piece, resulting in a final price that surpassed all previous records for the artist. It was a resounding success and a powerful demonstration of Christie’s leadership in the global market for Old Master paintings.
Art, Heritage & Lifestyle
At Christie’s International Real Estate Madrid, we are honored to be part of a global brand built on passion for heritage, beauty, and timeless value. This historic sale not only highlights Canaletto’s enduring appeal—it also reflects the values we share with our clients: a love of the exceptional, an eye for investment, and an appreciation for legacy.
In the high-end real estate market of Madrid, we know our clients seek more than just a home—they seek a masterpiece. And this vision—uniting art, lifestyle, and heritage—is at the heart of everything we do.