![Francesco Guardi - The Giudecca with the Zitelle [1780s]](http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7762/17164004388_fff23436cb_o.jpg)
Francesco Guardi was, after Canaletto, the main painter of views of Venice in the 18th century. His early figurative paintings were carried out in association with his brother, Gian Antonio, but in about 1760 Guardi turned to view painting. Following Canaletto he recorded both the architecture of the city and the celebrations of its inhabitants in interior and exterior scenes. These works brought him great success. While Guardi followed Canaletto in producing views or vedute, he soon developed his own style, based on a freer handling of paint. He took particular pleasure in rendering the vibrant atmosphere of Venetian light and its dazzling effect on water.
Beyond Venice's Grand Canal, bustling with gondolas and sailing boats, is the church of Santa Maria della Presentazione. Better known as the Zitelle, it was originally attached to a foundling hospital for girls and was built in the 16th century.
[National Gallery, London - Oil on canvas, 18.7 x 23.8 cm]