Waiting for the Regata or Boat Race

Category

Library Item

Item no

24962

Title

In attesa della Regata [Waiting for the Regata, or boat race]

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1893

Size

35.0 x 23.5 cm

Type

Photogravure

Location

Art and Design Library

Ferdinando Ongania [1842 - 1911] was an Italian antiquarian bookseller, with a shop in St. Mark's Square in Venice. From 1861 until his death in 1911 he devoted himself almost entirely to the printing of illustrated art books. His love of Venice inspired him to record the architecture of his beloved city.

Originally regattas were either races between boatmen and gondoliers or regate grandi (organized for special religious or civic occasions). In time, financing the regattas shifted from the Republic to private individuals, who were often foreign princes. The modern regata dates back to 1841. In that year, the Municipality of Venice requested the Austrian authorities to proclaim an annual "boat race along the Grand Canal, organized by the local authorities to encourage gondoliers to uphold the honour of their famed skills". In 1866 when Venice became part of the Kingdom of Italy, the focus of the event changed, and instead of just a race, the regattas became a celebration of the glorious history of the Republic of Venice. Despite this, it was not until 1899 that this was officially recognized by Count Filippo Grimani, Mayor of Venice, who coined the name, "Regata Storica".

Exhibitions with this item

Other views of this item

Related images

Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Balconies

Architecture > Architectural features > Roofs

Architecture > Architectural features > Windows

Landscape > Water > Canals

People > Adults > Crowds

Places > Europe > Italy

Transport > Infrastructure > Stone bridges

Transport > Water > Gondolas

Read how our collections have inspired people taking part in events, visits and community groups. Use the slider or navigation arrows to see more responses.

Waiting for the Regata or boat race