Art lovers and collectors are eagerly anticipating the upcoming auction of a newly identified watercolor by the renowned English artist J.M.W. Turner. Titled The Approach to Venice or Venice From the Lagoon, this masterpiece is set to go under the hammer at Christie’s Old Master and British Drawings sale in New York on February 4, with an estimated value of between $300,000 and $500,000.
The fascinating journey of this painting began when art expert Rosie Jarvie spotted a photo of it on Christie’s online appraisal service. Despite the poor quality of the image and the greenish tint of the old glass covering the artwork, Jarvie’s keen eye recognized the potential of the piece. Turner, born in 1775, is celebrated for his unique approach to landscapes and seascapes, characterized by his masterful use of light and color. His influence on the art world, particularly in paving the way for Impressionism, cannot be overstated.
The current owner of The Approach to Venice is a descendant of Haddon C. Adams, a 20th-century engineer and art enthusiast who had a deep appreciation for the work of John Ruskin. Adams acquired the painting around 1930, at which time it was correctly attributed to Turner. However, a misidentification occurred, and the artwork was mistakenly classified as a piece by Ruskin, likely due to the close relationship between Ruskin and Turner.
Ruskin, a prominent art critic and writer, held Turner in high regard, once referring to him as “the greatest painter of all time.” Ruskin’s admiration for Turner’s work was well-documented, and he played a significant role in promoting the artist’s legacy. The bond between the two men further complicates the history of The Approach to Venice, adding a layer of intrigue to its rediscovery.
Upon expert examination by Turner scholars Peter Bower and Ian Warrell, the watercolor’s authenticity was confirmed, solidifying its place as a valuable Turner masterpiece. The newfound attribution significantly increases the painting’s worth, as Turner’s works command substantially higher prices than those of Ruskin. In recent years, Turner’s paintings have fetched impressive sums at auction, with one watercolor selling for over $1 million in 2023.
As art enthusiasts prepare for the upcoming auction, the excitement surrounding The Approach to Venice continues to grow. Its journey from obscurity to recognition as a Turner original serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and significance of the artist’s work in the art world.
