Artwork

A kebab shop near the Yeni Cami

A kebab shop near the Yeni Cami, by Anonymous Greek artist, watercolor, 1809
A kebab shop near the Yeni Cami, by Anonymous Greek artist, watercolor, 1809

A kebab shop near the Yeni Cami is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Anonymous Greek artist. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A watercolour depicting a kebab shop near the Yeni Cami in Istanbul, created as part of a commissioned series for Stratford Canning, highlighting Ottoman life and architecture.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork captures everyday Istanbul life, focusing on a kebab shop near the Yeni Cami, reflecting Canning's interest in documenting Ottoman institutions, buildings, and customs during his diplomatic tenure.

Technique & Style

The anonymous artist's style blends Ottoman watercolour techniques, characterized by dense, brilliant colours, with European representational and perspectival conventions, indicative of possible ties to Konstantin Kapidagli's studio.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by Stratford Canning in the early 19th century, the series was later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1895 from Canning's daughter, Charlotte.

Context

Created during Canning's diplomatic mission to Istanbul (starting 1808), the work reflects the era's cross-cultural exchange, with potential influences from encounters with European artists like Charles Cockerell, who interacted with the artist in Istanbul.

Artist & collection