Vintage Underground Poster - “Little Venice” Canal Boat by John Finnie, 1965
A nostalgic celebration of London’s waterways, captured in bold colour and canalware charm
Artist: John Finnie
Title: Little Venice
Date: 1965
Medium: Printed poster
Style: Vintage London Underground promotional artwork
Subject: Canal boat under brick bridge with painted canalware
Frame: Wooden frame with excellent vintage presentation
Dimensions: H: 88cm (34.6") | W: 67cm (26.4") | D: 5cm (2")
Styling: Ideal for hallway walls, study spaces, or transport-themed interiors
Delivery: Not included - Please use the ‘Request Delivery Quote’ feature located next to the ‘Add to Basket’ tab before completing your order
This striking framed poster, designed by John Finnie in 1965, captures the quiet charisma of London’s canal heritage. Titled Little Venice, the artwork features a traditional canal boat nestled beneath a brick bridge, with vivid canalware including a painted water can - anchoring the foreground in joyful detail. Often seen on the top of narrowboats these decorative, metal water-carriers are sometimes referred to as ‘Buckby’ water cans. The name ‘Buckby’ comes from the canalside village of Long Buckby Wharf, Northamptonshire.
Rendered in bold lines and saturated colours, the composition evokes the spirit of mid-century travel advertising, celebrating the tucked-away beauty of Little Venice. The barge art, often referred to as canalware, adds a folkloric touch - a nod to the decorative traditions of Britain’s waterways.
Originally created in the style of classic London Underground promotional posters, this piece is both playful and precise, offering a glimpse into a slower, more scenic rhythm of city life. Whether admired for its graphic appeal or its cultural nostalgia, it makes a unique statement on any wall.
To find out more about the endangered craft of Canal Art and related subject please visit Canal art and boat painting - Heritage Crafts |
measurements
Height:
88 cm
Width:
67 cm
Depth:
5 cm
measurements
declaration
White’s Antiques has clarified that the Vintage Underground Poster - “Little Venice” Canal Boat by John Finnie, 1965 (LA544495) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being 1965