Bernardo Bellotto (1721 - 1780)

Bernardo Bellotto

Bernardo Bellotto was an Italian painter, celebrated for his urban landscapes and detailed vedute, particularly of European cities like Dresden, Vienna, and Warsaw. He was born in Venice in 1722 and exhibited prodigious talent from a young age. Under the tutelage of his uncle, the renowned Canaletto, Bellotto honed his skills in capturing the essence of cityscapes with a unique style characterized by a cooler palette and a distinct use of impasto, especially in depicting skies and horizon lines.

In 1747, Bernardo Bellotto's career took him to Dresden, where he served as Court Painter to Augustus III of Poland and Elector of Saxony. His stay in Dresden was marked by the creation of panoramic views, highlighting his knack for architectural detail and the interplay of light and shadow. Following his tenure in Dresden, Bellotto spent the last 16 years of his life in Warsaw, where his works played a significant role in the city's post-World War II reconstruction.

Bernardo Bellotto's works are lauded for their precision and the manner in which they blend his Venetian roots with influences from Dutch landscape painting. His later works in Warsaw, characterized by their vibrant color palette and historical themes, underscore his evolution as an artist. Today, Bellotto's paintings are celebrated for their historical value and artistic merit, housed in prestigious collections in cities like Dresden and Warsaw.

For those interested in exploring the fascinating world of Bellotto's art and its impact on European cultural heritage, signing up for updates on new product sales and auction events related to Bernardo Bellotto is an excellent way to stay informed.