Artwork
Figure d'une Femme Arabe de Alexandrie
Figure d'une Femme Arabe de Alexandrie is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist Unknown. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Figure d'une Femme Arabe de Alexandrie is a watercolour painting depicting a woman in traditional attire standing on a rocky shore.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is likely inspired by an engraving from Karsten Niebuhr's 1792 travel account, documenting his 1761–1763 expedition. Her clothing and accessories reflect regional dress and customs of the early 19th century Middle East.
Technique & Style
The painting employs soft watercolours, creating a gentle, dreamy effect. Light from the front illuminates the subject's robes, which glow against the pale background.
History & Provenance
The work may be an early 19th-century reinterpretation of a scene from Niebuhr's expedition. It entered a private collection in 1961, acquired from Walter Spencer.
Artist & collection
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