Large antique Orientalist painting of shoreline prayer, Van Elven

Painted in the late 19^th century, this Orientalist scene likely depicts the shoreline of Philae, Egypt, where a group of figures can be seen praying beside the shore.

Five figures can be seen in the central foreground, in various stages of prayer. They are depicted in profile, allowing the viewer to see their devotional positioning. Some kneel directly on the ground, whilst others rest on elaborate prayer mats. Pairs of colourful slippers have been carefully placed to the side. Two small fishing boats are moored beside the figures, suggesting arrival or an imminent departure.

The sea itself is immaculately rendered, painted with gestural strokes to reflect the dusky light of the sunset above. A larger boat with figures is moored on the other side of the expanse, wonderfully illuminated in the evening light. The shoreline is populated by tall palm trees, which cover various buildings and ruins. A mountain can be glimpsed in the right background. The warm light and calm prayer of the figures allow a sense of tranquillity to pervade the scene.

The painting is ensconced in an elaborately carved giltwood frame, and is signed and indistinctly inscribed to the lower left corner ‘P. Van Elven…’ (probably ‘Philae / Egypte / (18)80’). Dutch artist Pierre Tetar van Elven (1828-1908) enjoyed success throughout Europe as a landscape and genre scene painter. A worn loaner label can also be seen on the reverse of the frame.

With its painterly qualities and expansive viewpoint, this Orientalist scene is a fantastic exemplar of the genre.

Canvas: Height 98cm, width 133cm
Frame: Height 124cm, width 159cm, depth 10cm