Artwork
A Scene in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem
A Scene in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist John Leslie. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
A Scene in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem is a watercolour work depicting a ceremony at the Stone of Unction. The artwork is part of a sketchbook created in 1850.
Subject & Meaning
The scene shows a crowded interior with camels and people, referencing the biblical account of Christ's anointing (John 19:38–40). Egyptian handlers manage baggage camels in the background, while figures in the foreground wear distinctive clothing.
Technique & Style
The watercolour is executed in loose, rapid strokes, giving the work a sketchy, unfinished appearance. The artist captures the texture and movement of the camels and the surrounding figures.
History & Provenance
The sketchbook was formerly owned by the Leslie family. The work was exhibited in 1978.
Artist & collection
Artist
Watercolour painter John Leslie captured 19th-century sacred spaces in exact, luminous detail.
