A Closer Look:

Orientalism can be defined as a complex historical and cultural event which evolved throughout the nineteenth century. The early visions dreamed by French Romantic painters presented the Orient simultaneously as a place of barbarity and violence but also of culture and opulence. Harems were filled with languid sitters adorned in great bejewelled finery, all set against the backdrop of highly ornate exotic interiors and landscapes. Slightly later, more faithful representations of the Middle East and North Africa as captured by European artist travellers presented contrasting images of real-life characters and street vendors, architecture and landscapes. Finally, the European studio artists drew on first-hand experiences of their travels in order to elevate the objects, costume, crafts and interiors of the Orient into a sumptuous celebration of workmanship, colour and texture.

The present work by Rudolf Ernst falls into the latter of these categories, with his Orientalist paintings being inspired by his studies of the Moorish architecture of Southern Spain, and by his visits to Tangier and Constantinople. Scroll down for a closer look at some of the exquisite details to be found in this highlight from our 14 June Orientalist Art sale.