In the XVIII century, Venetian trade experienced a crisis, which, in effect, was caused by the loss of the former influence of Venice in Europe and throughout the world. But nothing happens at once, and this picture is the best confirmation of that.
In the sun-drenched water surface, there is an active trading life: ships sailing with goods, people are busy with their everyday business. The architectural background here is unusually accurate – however, it does not surprise Canaletto, he was a great composer of architectural music, filled with colors.
Related Paintings 
View of the Doge’s Palace in Venice by Antonio Canaletto 
Bucentaurus prepares to sail from the mole on the day of the Ascension by Antonio Canaletto 
Capriccio with classical ruins by Antonio Canaletto 
Cathedral of San Giovanni e Paolo and Piazza San Marco by Antonio Canaletto 
The Doge’s Palace and the Schiavoni Embankment by Antonio Canaletto 
Piazzetta by Antonio Canaletto 
Campo di Rialto by Antonio Canaletto 
The Grand Canal: a view to the northeast on the Rialto Bridge by Antonio Canaletto
View of the Doge’s Palace in Venice by Antonio Canaletto Bucentaurus prepares to sail from the mole on the day of the Ascension by Antonio Canaletto Capriccio with classical ruins by Antonio Canaletto Cathedral of San Giovanni e Paolo and Piazza San Marco by Antonio Canaletto The Doge’s Palace and the Schiavoni Embankment by Antonio Canaletto Piazzetta by Antonio Canaletto Campo di Rialto by Antonio Canaletto The Grand Canal: a view to the northeast on the Rialto Bridge by Antonio Canaletto