Large Orientalist oil painting of the Alcázar of Seville by López Cantero

Painted by the Spanish artist Manuel López Cantero, this exquisite oil painting captures the courtyard of the Alcázar of Seville. Originally constructed in the 11th century as a fortress to protect the city, the Alcázar was later expanded for King Peter of Castile (1334–1369) by Castilian Christians. Various sections of the palace exhibit different architectural styles, reflecting the diverse periods in which they were built.

The painting is set within the courtyard of the Palace of King Peter, a magnificent example of the Mudéjar style. Between 1364 and 1366, King Peter commissioned Arab and Berber craftsmen to contribute to the palace’s design, a testament to his deep appreciation for Islamic architectural heritage. López Cantero masterfully captures the intricate beauty of this space with remarkable attention to detail, lending the painting a near-photographic quality. Earthy tones dominate the composition, complemented by vibrant accents—such as the striking green geometric tilework and the vivid blue and red wall paintings—bringing the scene to life.

At the heart of the courtyard, a small fountain brimming with water sits beside a terracotta plant pot, adding a sense of tranquillity. Nearby, a richly coloured polychrome tasselled rug introduces additional depth and visual interest to the piece.

Encasing the artwork is an unusual Arabic-style giltwood frame, enhancing its historical charm. The painting is signed ‘M Lopez Cantero’ in the lower left corner.

Paintings of this nature were often acquired as souvenirs by travellers wishing to preserve memories of distant lands. This exceptional piece not only immortalizes the grandeur of Seville’s Alcázar but also serves as a captivating addition to an art collection.

Canvas: Height 54cm, width 67cm
Frame: Height 80cm, width 92cm, depth 3.5cm