Who painted Horse market, Syria?

Horse market, Syria was painted by Alberto Pasini in 1850.

Where can I see Horse market, Syria?

Horse market, Syria is held by Art Gallery of New South Wales.

What movement is Horse market, Syria?

Horse market, Syria is associated with Orientalism.

Can I buy a print of Horse market, Syria?

Museum-quality prints of Horse market, Syria are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Horse market, Syria

Alberto Pasini , 1850

Horse market, Syria is an oil painting by the Orientalist artist Alberto Pasini. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

About this work

Overview

Alberto Pasini’s oil painting, created around 1850, presents a lively Syrian market where horses are the focal point of commercial activity. A crowd surrounds the animals, while a prominently dressed man in a red hat and pink robe draws the viewer’s eye. The composition is anchored by a substantial domed building with arched windows, framing the bustling scene.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures a moment of everyday trade in a Middle‑Eastern bazaar, emphasizing the central role of horses in regional commerce and transport. The figure in bright attire may signify a merchant or overseer, highlighting the human element that mediates between animal and market. The setting reflects both economic exchange and cultural vibrancy of 19th‑century Syria.

Technique & Style

Pasini employs a warm palette of ochres, reds, and pinks, applying fine, controlled brushstrokes to render textures of fabric, stone, and animal hide. The careful modeling of light on the domed architecture creates depth, while the detailed rendering of the crowd conveys movement. The overall style merges Orientalist observation with a realistic approach to figures and architecture.

History & Provenance

The painting entered the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, where it remains on display. Its acquisition date is not recorded in the provided facts, but its presence in a major Australian public institution underscores the work’s relevance to the museum’s holdings of 19th‑century Orientalist art.

Context

Created during a period when European artists traveled widely and documented exotic locales, Pasini’s scene reflects contemporary fascination with the Near East. The depiction aligns with Orientalist trends that sought to portray market life, architecture, and local customs for Western audiences, offering a visual record of Syrian urban environments of the era.