Canaletto masterpiece stars in National Library of Wales' Idyll and Industry exhibition

August 2024 · 2 minute read

The oil painting depicts a temporary stonemason’s yard near the Grand Canal in Venice, and was painted in the early 18th century by Canaletto, the most famous Venetian painter of his day. The painting is appearing in the exhibition alongside nearly 100 additional works from Wales’ National Art Collection, creating a showcase that delves into the concept of industry’s impact on landscapes, while also highlighting the historic connection between The Stonemason’s Yard and Wales.

Speaking about the exhibition, Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, Chief Executive of the National Library of Wales said, ‘This promises to be a very special exhibition and we are extremely grateful to be working in partnership with the National Gallery.’ 

‘It is an honour to have one of Canaletto's masterpieces here, and displaying the work alongside some of the highlights of the National Art Collection in the library creates a great opportunity to appreciate the richness and diversity of the Welsh experience and the responses to that in art,’ he added.

The exhibition will take place in the beautiful Gregynog Gallery in The National Library of Wales from 10 May until 7 September 2024, with accompanying events set to be announced on the library’s official website. The event will also be the library’s first to include an audio-described tour for a selection of items on display, as part of the venue’s ambition to become increasingly accessible and inclusive.

Learn more about the many museums and galleries of Wales.

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