Artwork

`Propyla of Great Temple. Luxor, Thebaid'

`Propyla of Great Temple.  Luxor, Thebaid', by George de Sausmarez, watercolor, 1855
`Propyla of Great Temple.  Luxor, Thebaid', by George de Sausmarez, watercolor, 1855

`Propyla of Great Temple. Luxor, Thebaid' 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 'Propyla of Great Temple.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour, titled 'Propyla of Great Temple. Luxor, Thebaid', is a landscape depicting ancient Egyptian ruins. Created in 1855 by George de Sausmarez, it is one of 45 works documenting views from Egypt and Nubia.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows crumbling stone walls, tilted obelisks, and small figures amidst the ruins, conveying a sense of abandonment and decay. The artist captures the play of light on uneven surfaces, highlighting the textures of the ancient structures.

Technique & Style

The watercolour features muted earthy tones, with soft shadows and subtle colour gradations. The artist's focus on light and texture creates a sense of atmosphere and depth in the scene.

History & Provenance

The work was created during or after a Nile journey in 1855, as part of a series of images later assembled in an album bound in crimson morocco leather.

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.