Artwork
Monastery of Copts at Gebel et Tayr

Monastery of Copts at Gebel et Tayr is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Edward William Cooke. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Monastery of Copts at Gebel et Tayr is a pencil drawing created by Edward Cooke in 1874. It depicts a monastic site in Egypt, capturing the architecture and surroundings in a loose, sketchy style.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing shows a rocky hillside with a cluster of simple stone buildings, likely a Coptic monastery, and figures moving along a winding path below. The scene conveys a sense of isolation and tranquility.
Technique & Style
Cooke employed varying line weights and shading to convey depth and texture. Darker patches indicate shadows, while lighter strokes suggest highlights, creating a sense of atmosphere and volume in the scene.
History & Provenance
Cooke produced the drawing during his 1874 visit to Egypt, inspired by a suggestion from F. Goodall. Some sketches were made on-site, while others were completed later, as recorded in his journal.
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