Entrance to the new Ockella Great Square of Alexandria

This watercolour by William Carpenter depicts the entrance to the Ockella, or Wakalah, in the Great Square of Alexandria, a European district at the time.

This watercolour by William Carpenter depicts the entrance to the Ockella, or Wakalah, in the Great Square of Alexandria, a European district at the time. Created in 1853, the work reflects Carpenter’s travels in India and his return journey via the Overland Route. The scene captures a structure combining functions of a caravanserai, hotel, lodging-house, and store, as described in historical accounts. The artwork was purchased by Eyre & Hobhouse, Ltd. in January 1983.