Who painted Two men playing the game of Cirid?

Two men playing the game of Cirid was painted by Anonymous Greek artist in 1809.

Where can I see Two men playing the game of Cirid?

Two men playing the game of Cirid is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Two men playing the game of Cirid?

Two men playing the game of Cirid is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Two men playing the game of Cirid

Anonymous Greek artist , 1809

Two men playing the game of Cirid 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. This watercolour depicts two horsemen engaged in the game of Cirid, a traditional Ottoman equestrian sport.

About this work

The artist stayed nameless, but Turkish scholars think he worked near Konstantin Kapidagli.

This watercolor shows two men on horseback playing Cirid. The game used blunt wooden lances to knock riders off balance. It was one of many scenes painted for a British diplomat in Istanbul around 1809.

The artist stayed nameless, but Turkish scholars think he worked near Konstantin Kapidagli. The pictures were made to document what the diplomat saw during his travels.

The game itself is worth a look. Check the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This watercolour depicts two horsemen engaged in the game of Cirid, a traditional Ottoman equestrian sport. Created around 1809, it is part of a series documenting Ottoman customs and institutions.

Subject & Meaning

The game of Cirid involved riders using blunt wooden lances to unseat their opponents, showcasing skill and horsemanship. The scene offers insight into a specific aspect of Ottoman culture and entertainment.

Technique & Style

The artist's style blends Ottoman techniques, such as dense watercolour and bodycolour, with European representational conventions and perspective. The identity of the artist remains unknown, though they are believed to be associated with Konstantin Kapidagli's studio.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by Stratford Canning, a British diplomat, the watercolour was part of a large series documenting his observations in Istanbul. The series was later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1895 from Canning's daughter Charlotte.