Artwork

Courtyard, Alhambra

Courtyard, Alhambra, by Charles Clifford, 1858
Courtyard, Alhambra, by Charles Clifford, 1858

Courtyard, Alhambra is a photography by the Impressionist artist Charles Clifford. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Courtyard, Alhambra is a photograph by Charles Clifford, capturing a serene scene within the Alhambra palace.

Subject & Meaning

The image features a lone figure in the Court of the Lions, one of the palace's main courtyards, highlighting the intricate plasterwork and architectural details.

Technique & Style

Clifford's use of light and shadow creates a composition of abstract forms, emphasizing the textures and patterns of the palace's ornamentation.

History & Provenance

Clifford, a topographical photographer and official photographer to Queen Isabella II, worked in Spain from 1852 until his death in 1863, documenting the country's landscapes and monuments.

Context

The Alhambra, then in disuse, was a romantic reminder of past glories for 19th-century travelers, and Clifford's photograph captures its grandeur during this early era of photography.

Artist & collection

Artist

Charles Clifford

Charles Clifford (1819–1883) was a British artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.