Calvert Richard Jones trained to be a vicar, but followed this career path for only a few years. Born into a wealthy Welsh family, Jones was a musician and mathematician as well as artist. He spent much of his life travelling and engaged in artistic pursuits.

Venice was always a popular subject for artists. This is a slightly fanciful view, with buildings and jetties re-arranged to create a varied and lively composition. The Rialto itself, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, is, however, accurately portrayed. The painting is full of life and charming detail designed to catch the eye. Perhaps the most delightful figure is the outrageously fluffy white dog, sitting calmly by the side of the Grand Canal observing the bustle of 19th-century Venetian life.