Artwork

Palestinian [?] women with water pitchers

Palestinian [?] women with water pitchers, by John J. Alsop, watercolor, 1954
Palestinian [?] women with water pitchers, by John J. Alsop, watercolor, 1954

Palestinian [?] women with water pitchers is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist John J. Alsop. It dates from 1954 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1954 watercolour by John J.

About this work

Overview

This 1954 watercolour by John J. Alsop portrays two Palestinian women engaged in a daily task, characterized by loose brushstrokes and a predominantly muted brown and gray palette.

Subject & Meaning

The piece depicts two women in traditional, long robes, one carrying a basket and the other balancing a large jug on her head, their faces obscured while hands and feet are clearly visible, highlighting everyday life.

Technique & Style

Alsop employed quick, loose brushstrokes, resulting in a rough, unfinished appearance, with minimal detail focus beyond the subjects' attire and the objects they carry.

History & Provenance

Acquired by the collection from R. Appleby in January 1974 for £8, the work's pre-1974 ownership history is not detailed here.

Artist & collection

Artist

John J. Alsop

John J. Alsop painted small watercolor scenes of everyday life in the late 1800s. These quiet sketches show women carrying water pitchers and a close-up of a camel’s head, all done with quick, light brushstrokes. The…