Courtyard
1855
oil
From the collection of Art Institute of Chicago
1855
oil
From the collection of Art Institute of Chicago
You see a sunlit courtyard with laundry hanging on ropes, a dog sleeping in the shade, and a few people chatting near a well. Decamps painted this scene after traveling to the Middle East. He liked showing everyday life, not grand battles or myths. The bright light and deep shadows make the space feel real, almost like a snapshot. If you like how light plays in this painting, look up *chiaroscuro*.
