Who painted Pompey's Pillar Alexandria'?

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria' was painted by Unknown in 1847.

Where can I see Pompey's Pillar Alexandria'?

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria' is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Pompey's Pillar Alexandria'?

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria' is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria'

Unknown , 1847

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria' is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Pompey's Pillar Alexandria is a watercolour drawing created in 1847, one of eight views from a journey through Turkey and Egypt.

About this work

Overview

Pompey's Pillar Alexandria is a watercolour drawing created in 1847, one of eight views from a journey through Turkey and Egypt. The series was contributed to by at least two artists, evident from varying handwriting on inscriptions and mounts.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a solitary, damaged column in a flat, sandy landscape, with a simple capital and base. Faint lines indicate cracks, while a distant blue strip suggests water or sky. Two tiny figures are shown near the column's base, contextualizing its scale.

Technique & Style

Executed in soft watercolour washes, the piece maintains a simple, dreamy quality. The paper exhibits a worn, speckled appearance, indicative of extensive handling.

History & Provenance

Originally part of a bound album or portfolio, the drawing was later separated, as evidenced by offsets on some mounts. It is linked to a group of related drawings, including those in collection SD.1316, suggesting a shared origin.

Context

Similar sketches can be found at the Victoria and Albert Museum, providing context for this type of mid-19th-century travel-inspired watercolour artwork.