Artwork

Interior of the Mosque of Sultan Hassan

Interior of the Mosque of Sultan Hassan, by Unknown, watercolor, 1847
Interior of the Mosque of Sultan Hassan, by Unknown, watercolor, 1847

Interior of the Mosque of Sultan Hassan is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist Unknown. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour depicts the interior of the Mosque of Sultan Hassan, one of a series of eight views of Turkey and Egypt created in 1847. The work showcases a large, open space with high ceilings and arches, featuring a central dome with intricate carvings.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque's interior, with people in robes walking on the stone floor. Light pours in through the arches, creating a warm glow. The scene conveys a sense of calm and serenity, inviting the viewer to contemplate the space.

Technique & Style

The watercolour is characterized by its use of light colours and delicate rendering of architectural details. The style is consistent with the Romanticism movement, which often emphasized the beauty of exotic locations and the emotional response they evoked.

History & Provenance

The drawing was part of a series likely created during a single journey. The sheets were once bound together, as indicated by inscriptions on the backs of some mounts and offset impressions from facing pages. At least two artists contributed to the series, as suggested by differences in handwriting and style.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known