Artwork

On the Road from Smyrna to Brussa

On the Road from Smyrna to Brussa, by Unknown, watercolor, 1847
On the Road from Smyrna to Brussa, by Unknown, watercolor, 1847

On the Road from Smyrna to Brussa 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

On the Road from Smyrna to Brussa is a watercolour drawing created in 1847, depicting a scene along a route in Turkey.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a camel standing on a rocky path in a desert-like landscape, accompanied by a person resting against a stone. The background features distant hills and sparse trees, evoking a sense of isolation.

Technique & Style

The artist employed soft watercolours to achieve a simple, atmospheric effect. The camel's details are rendered loosely, suggesting a quick sketch.

History & Provenance

This drawing is part of a set of eight views of Turkey and Egypt. Evidence of offset marks on the mounts indicates that the sheets were once bound together, and stylistic analysis suggests multiple artists contributed to the series.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known