Prague
Open now

The Story of Canaletto's Masterpiece: London, the River Thames at Lobkowicz Palace

Delve into the painting's historical context, aristocratic connections, and journey through centuries of European art history.

Explore the captivating narrative behind Canaletto's significant painting, 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day.' This detailed account traces its creation in the 18th century, its connections to the esteemed Lobkowicz family, and its travels across Europe. Understand the historical moments that shaped its journey and its enduring legacy in European art. Discover how this masterpiece has been preserved and shared with the public over generations.

About The Story of the Painting: London, the River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day at Lobkowicz Palace in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for The Story of the Painting: London, the River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day at Lobkowicz Palace in Prague

Exhibition summary

Explore the fascinating journey of Canaletto's masterpiece, 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day,' from its creation in the mid-18th century to its travels across Europe. Discover its historical context, its connection to Prince Ferdinand Philipp Lobkowicz, and its current display at the Lobkowicz Palace.

Curatorial context

This narrative follows the extensive provenance of Canaletto's significant painting, 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day,' and its companion piece, 'The River Thames Looking Towards Westminster from Lambeth.' Created around 1746-1748, these works represent a collaboration between the Venetian artist and Prince Ferdinand Philipp Lobkowicz, capturing vibrant city views of London during a period of European unrest and aristocratic Grand Tours. The painting's journey is meticulously detailed, spanning its creation in London, its transport to Bohemia and Vienna with the Lobkowicz family, and its eventual public display in the 19th century. The text highlights key historical moments, including the confiscation and restitution of the artworks during the 20th century and a notable loan to London for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Currently, 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day' is on loan to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna for the exhibition _Canaletto & Bellotto_, while its companion piece remains at the Lobkowicz Palace, where visitors can also experience the former through an animated display on a Samsung The Frame screen.

Admission and ticket notes

Information about tickets to view the painting at the Lobkowicz Palace and its companion piece is available via the provided link. Visitors can also see an animated display of the painting on a Samsung The Frame screen. The painting 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day' is currently on loan to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.

The Story of the Painting: London, the River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for The Story of the Painting: London, the River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day at Lobkowicz Palace in Prague

Venue
Lobkowicz Palace
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Giovanni Antonio Canal, known as Canaletto, was the Venetian artist who created the painting 'London: The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day' around 1748. The work is closely associated with Prince Ferdinand Philipp Lobkowicz.
More from Lobkowicz Palace
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Lobkowicz Palace in Prague to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
Watercolor illustration of the Antonín Dvořák Birth House museum, showcasing interactive exhibits on Dvořák's childhood, family life, and early music, with visitors engaging with multimedia displays and historical artifacts.

Antonín Dvořák's Interactive Birth House Museum and Exhibition in Nelahozeves

Explore the life and musical inspirations of a celebrated Czech composer.

Delve into the formative years of Antonín Dvořák at his birthplace museum. Engaging multimedia and historical displays reveal the impact of his childhood home on his iconic compositions.

Dvořák Birth House Museum
A watercolor painting depicting a grand 18th-century ceremonial procession on the River Thames in London, featuring St. Paul's Cathedral, numerous boats, and historical architecture, capturing a moment of civic pride.

Explore "The Many Paths of One Painting" by Canaletto at Lobkowicz Palace

Tracing the compelling history of an 18th-century Venetian masterpiece.

Uncover the fascinating journey of Canaletto's "London: A Lord Mayor's Day on the Thames." Learn about its creation, Lobkowicz family ownership, and current presentation, including a digital display at the Palace.

View Exhibition Details
A watercolor illustration of a 19th-century drawing-room with purple walls, antique furniture, a chandelier, and hunting trophies, reflecting the lifestyle of a noble family.

Private Spaces: A Noble Family at Home – 19th-Century Aristocratic Life Exhibition

Discover period rooms, Old Master art, and family heritage at Lobkowicz Palace.

Experience the permanent 'Private Spaces' exhibition, offering insight into a Czech noble family's 19th-century home. Explore meticulously recreated rooms filled with art, furniture, and an extensive arms collection. A complimentary audioguide enhances your historical journey.

Private Spaces Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a rustic room interior with musical notes, a fireplace, a violin on a table, and a guitar in a bookshelf, evoking the childhood home of composer Antonín Dvořák.

Discover Dvořák's Birth House Museum & Musical Genius in Nelahozeves

An interactive journey through the composer's formative years.

Uncover the childhood and inspirations of Antonín Dvořák at his interactive birth house museum. Explore eleven dedicated rooms showcasing his musical journey through engaging exhibits and historical context.

Dvořák Birth House
A watercolor illustration of a quill pen in an inkwell on a desk with parchment, evoking the theme of the 'From Inkwell to Typewriter' exhibition at Lobkowicz Palace.
Oct 31, 2025 – Oct 29, 2026

Lobkowicz Palace Presents: From Inkwell to Typewriter Writing History Exhibition

Explore historical writing instruments and famous correspondence from European culture.

Delve into the fascinating journey of writing instruments, from ancient quills to early typewriters. This exhibition at Lobkowicz Palace features rare artifacts and original manuscripts, revealing their impact on history and culture. Discover the stories behind famous letters.

From Inkwell to Typewriter
Watercolor illustration of a purple writing case with vintage pens, inkwells, and scissors, next to a handwritten letter, evoking a historical writing theme.
Oct 31, 2025 – Oct 31, 2026

From Inkwell to Typewriter: An Exhibition on Communication History at Lobkowicz Palace

Discover the evolution of writing through historical letters and documents.

Explore the "From Inkwell to Typewriter" exhibition at Lobkowicz Palace. This temporary display highlights the fascinating journey of communication, featuring authentic handwritten letters from figures like Goethe and Louis XIV. Immerse yourself in the historical context of written correspondence.

View Exhibition Details
Prague

Find Current Exhibitions in Prague: Your Guide to Museum Shows

Explore Prague's vibrant art and history through diverse museum exhibitions.

Easily discover what's on display in Prague's museums and cultural institutions. Explore compelling temporary exhibitions covering a wide array of fascinating topics, from historical periods to modern artistic movements.