Artwork
Abdourachman
Abdourachman is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Charles Lock Eastlake. It dates from 1818 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Abdourachman is a watercolour painting by Sir Charles Lock Eastlake, featuring a figure in traditional attire. The work contrasts with a pencil sketch on its reverse, which depicts a reclining figure, suggesting an alternative composition.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a man with dignified pose and traditional clothing (turban, vest, sash, loose pants, shoes), conveys a sense of respect and dignity. His attire and stance may imply a portrait of a specific individual or a representation of cultural encounter during Eastlake’s travels.
Technique & Style
Eastlake employed subtle colour variations and texture suggestions to achieve depth in the plain off-white background. The painting aligns with Romanticism’s emphasis on emotion and individuality, though its calm demeanor also reflects observational aspects of Eastlake’s travel sketches.
History & Provenance
Created in Athens during Eastlake’s 1818 three-month solo stay (after his companions left for Constantinople), the piece was later sold at Sotheby’s in 1970 as part of a £50 lot.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Charles Lock Eastlake (17 November 1793 – 24 December 1865) was a British painter, gallery director, collector and writer of the 19th century.
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