Artwork

`Corn Mill. Esneh. (Latopolis) - On the Nile - '

`Corn Mill.  Esneh. (Latopolis) - On the Nile - ', by George de Sausmarez, watercolor, 1855
`Corn Mill.  Esneh. (Latopolis) - On the Nile - ', by George de Sausmarez, watercolor, 1855

`Corn Mill. Esneh. (Latopolis) - On the Nile - ' is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist George de Sausmarez. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour, titled 'Corn Mill.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour, titled 'Corn Mill. Esneh. (Latopolis) - On the Nile', is one of 45 works in an album of Nile views created by George de Sausmarez in 1855. The album is bound in crimson morocco with a stamped front cover reading 'EGYPT'.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a simple, dimly lit room with a wooden corn mill, capturing a moment of everyday life. A woman stands near the door, while another person operates the mill, with a horse waiting outside.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by quick brushstrokes and soft colours, conveying a sense of immediacy rather than polished finish. The artist's focus on capturing a moment in time is evident in the loose, unrefined execution.

History & Provenance

The watercolour was created during or after a journey along the Nile, traveling both upstream and downstream. It is housed in an album with other views of the Nile, suggesting a documentary or observational intent.

Artist & collection

Artist

George de Sausmarez

George de Sausmarez painted watercolors of Egypt’s Nile in the 1850s, recording river scenes and landmarks with quick, transparent washes.