Object Description
Antique Egyptian landscape oil painting by Noël
French, 19th Century
Canvas: Height 28cm, width 38cm
Frame: Height 48cm, width 58cm, depth 6cm
This stunning Orientalist landscape is by the French artist Jules Achille Noël (1810-1881). Praised by Charles Baudelaire, Noël’s landscape and maritime work is housed in museums throughout France, as well as the National Maritime Museum in London. This Egyptian desert scene is a particularly fine example of his work.
The painting depicts a travelling caravan, with figures riding atop camels or walking alongside mules. Two dogs race at the front of the group, surrounded by clouds of dust to covey their speed. The seat figures carry long spears, presumably to protect them on their journey. On the horizon, faint glimpses of the departed city (possibly Cairo) can be seen, towered over by the imposing pyramids that confirm the Egyptian location.
Both the figures and animals and the city itself are rendered in a gestural manner, which helps to convey the oppressive haze and heat of the Egyptian midday. This atmosphere is aided by the unusual composition: over half of the canvas is taken up by the wide blue sky. Dotted with wisps of cloud, the unbalanced proportion places the focus on the arid landscape rather than the figures in it, effectively creating a sense of atmosphere. Noël’s use of composition and technique here conveys his skill as an artist.
Ensconced in a decorative giltwood frame, the painting is signed ‘Jules Noël’ in the lower right-hand corner.
With its impressive composition and techniques, this painting of Egypt would make an exceptional addition to any collection of Orientalist art or antiques.