CANALETTO
(b. 1697, Venezia, d. 1768, Venezia)

Interior View of the Henry VII Chapel, Westminster Abbey

1750-53
Oil on canvas, 78 x 67 cm
Private collection

This spectacular view of Henry VII's chapel in Westminster Abbey is one of Canaletto's rare depictions of an interior. The artist captures with accuracy the magnificent Late Perpendicular style architecture and rich sculptural decoration for which the building is so justly famous. Canaletto has chosen a viewpoint from an angle along the central nave of the chapel looking towards the tomb of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York. The grille surrounding the tomb can be seen at the far end of the chapel.