Artwork

`Our Candgia preparing to ascend a "Rapid' Assouan Cataracts On the Nile'

`Our Candgia preparing to ascend a "Rapid' Assouan Cataracts 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 is one of forty-five works in an album documenting a journey along the Nile in 1855.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour is one of forty-five works in an album documenting a journey along the Nile in 1855. It is mounted in a half-bound crimson morocco music binder stamped 'EGYPT'.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a local figure, Candgia, preparing to board a vessel at the Assouan Cataracts, a series of rapids on the Nile. The image captures a moment of interaction between the figure and the natural environment.

Technique & Style

The watercolour features a landscape with a river and rocks, rendered in a style that emphasizes natural observation. The colour palette includes a light yellow sky, and the composition is balanced between the river and surrounding landscape features.

History & Provenance

The album was created during or after the 1855 journey, and its contents provide a visual record of the artist's travels in Egypt and Nubia.