Artwork

Egypt and Nubia, Volume II: The Hypaethral Temple at Philae, called the Bed of Pharaoh

Egypt and Nubia, Volume II: The Hypaethral Temple at Philae, called the Bed of Pharaoh is a print by the Romanticist artist Louis Haghe. It dates from 1848 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1848 lithograph, 'Egypt and Nubia, Volume II: The Hypaethral Temple at Philae, called the Bed of Pharaoh,' is a work by Louis Haghe, a British artist and lithographer of Dutch origin.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the ancient Egyptian temple at Philae, known as the 'Bed of Pharaoh,' situated on a rocky riverbank. The scene is framed by palm trees and mountains, with small boats and figures adding scale to the ruined structure.

Technique & Style

Haghe created the lithograph from sketches by other artists who had visited the site, as he himself never saw it. The work showcases his skill in rendering detailed scenes through lithography, a technique he mastered as co-founder of Day & Haghe.

History & Provenance

Haghe settled in England in 1823 and co-founded Day & Haghe around 1830. He was trained in watercolour painting before turning to lithography.