Large antique Orientalist sunset oil painting by Lazerges

This evocative landscape scene portrays a group of Arab travellers resting on a leafy outcrop. With its sensational handling of light and texture, the painting is a fine example of the Orientalist genre, which was flourishing at this time.

Dotted around the canvas are a host of Arab figures, most of whom sit on a rocky ledge in the left foreground. To the right, additional figures can be seen resting underneath a makeshift tent, whilst a lone figure walks down a path in the left background. All of the figures are dressed in white and beige robes and shrouds, giving a sense of community to the group. The atmosphere is relaxed, with the lounging figures caught in a moment of reprieve.

The calm atmosphere is aided by the tranquil setting. The figures are shrouded by large trees blooming with dark green leaves, and the thick grassy plains, dotted with grazing cattle, extend right to the mountains on the horizon. The small fire, from which a small plume of smoke extends into the sky, adds an inviting touch to the scene.

The painting is beautifully rendered in a gestural manner that shows the influence of the contemporary Impressionist movement. The artist’s handling of light and colour is particularly impressive: the entire scene is rendered in muted hues that reflect the setting sun on the horizon. The graduation of the sky from pale orange to dusky blue to reflect the evening light is especially effective.

The painting is signed and dated in the lower right corner ‘Paul Lazerges 1895’. Son of the painter Hippolyte Lazerges, the artist Paul Jean Baptiste Lazerges (1845-1902) is known for his superb Orientalist scenes like this example from the Mayfair Gallery collection. The painting is enclosed in an unusual, later-added painted giltwood frame, which provides a colourful contrast to the scene within.

With its sensitive subject and pleasing composition, this exquisite Orientalist work would be sure to elevate the appropriate interior space.

Canvas: Height 74cm, width 100cm
Frame: Height 105.5cm, width 131cm, depth 8cm