Who painted Aswan; looking south up the Nile?

Aswan; looking south up the Nile was painted by Antonio or Anton Schranz in 1845.

Where can I see Aswan; looking south up the Nile?

Aswan; looking south up the Nile is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Aswan; looking south up the Nile?

Aswan; looking south up the Nile is associated with Orientalism.

Can I buy a print of Aswan; looking south up the Nile?

Museum-quality prints of Aswan; looking south up the Nile are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Aswan; looking south up the Nile

Antonio or Anton Schranz , 1845

Aswan; looking south up the Nile is a watercolor work on paper by the Orientalist artist Antonio or Anton Schranz. It dates from 1845 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The work is a watercolour executed in 1845 by the Austrian‑born artist Antonio (Anton) Schranz Jr.

About this work

Overview

The work is a watercolour executed in 1845 by the Austrian‑born artist Antonio (Anton) Schranz Jr. It depicts a tranquil stretch of the Nile near Aswan, looking southward. The composition presents a sandy riverbank fringed with palms, a distant rocky hill crowned by structures, and modest river traffic under a warm sky.

Subject & Meaning

The scene captures everyday life along the Egyptian river: small trading or transport vessels glide past, while a small group of figures in traditional long robes pause on the shore, suggesting a moment of rest or observation. The calm atmosphere conveys the leisurely pace of riverine activity in the mid‑19th century.

Technique & Style

Rendered in transparent watercolour washes, Schranz balances delicate tonal gradations with precise linear details in the boats and architecture. The palette emphasizes ochre sands, verdant palms, and the muted blues of water and sky, reflecting the artist’s skill in conveying light and atmosphere through layered pigment.

History & Provenance

The drawing likely originates from Schranz’s Nile voyages, possibly undertaken with Lord Castlereagh in 1842 or during later expeditions between 1845 and 1847. It forms part of a series of roughly 160 watercolours linked to Castlereagh’s travels, now housed in the collection at Lyme Park, Cheshire.