Artwork

View of Constantinople from the cemetery at Pera

View of Constantinople from the cemetery at Pera, by Unknown, watercolor, 1865
View of Constantinople from the cemetery at Pera, by Unknown, watercolor, 1865

View of Constantinople from the cemetery at Pera is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1865 watercolour captures a serene view of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) from the cemetery at Pera, characterized by soft, blended colours and a warm, sunset-like light.

Subject & Meaning

The scene juxtaposes a tranquil hillside cemetery, marked by tall cypress trees and a solitary figure in red, with the distant, bustling cityscape of Constantinople, highlighting contrasts between solitude and urban vibrancy.

Technique & Style

The artist employed soft, blended watercolours to convey depth and fading distance into mist, achieving a sense of warmth and serenity.

History & Provenance

Previously misattributed to Sir E. J. Poynter and H. A. Harper, the work was owned by Sir Hugh Poynter and Earl Baldwin of Bewdley before being acquired by Jeremy Maas in July 1971 for £45.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known