Artwork

North African man in travelling costume

North African man in travelling costume, by William Wiehe Collins, watercolor, 1905
North African man in travelling costume, by William Wiehe Collins, watercolor, 1905

North African man in travelling costume is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist William Wiehe Collins. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This watercolour shows a North African man in travel clothes. The artist painted it around 1900-1910 using a tricky “wet” style where paint stays fluid until it dries. That method hides small mistakes behind bold, flowing shapes.

Collins was famous in London for costume pictures and travel books. He even wrote guides to cathedrals in Spain and Italy.

Check out more by Collins, William Wiehe (RI).

Overview

This watercolour painting depicts a North African man in traditional travel attire, created by William Wiehe Collins around 1900-1910.

Technique & Style

The artwork showcases Collins' mastery of the 'wet' watercolour technique, where paint is applied while still fluid, allowing for bold, spontaneous forms that obscure minor errors.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a figure in exotic costume, a subject popular in Britain since the 18th century, particularly during the Victorian era.

History & Provenance

Collins was a prolific artist in London, exhibiting widely and illustrating books, including his own travel guides to European cathedrals.

Context

The demand for watercolours of exotic subjects declined by the late 19th century due to the rise of photography and coloured illustrations.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Wiehe Collins

William Wiehe Collins never left England, yet he spent years painting North Africa from memory after one short trip.