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Tophane Çesmesi with Kiliç Ali Pasa Camii

Unknown

1830

watercolor

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Romanesque Romanticism Early 19th Century

Dominant colour

Tophane Çesmesi with Kiliç Ali Pasa Camii is a 1830 watercolor by Unknown, a Romanesque work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Unknown
When & what style?: 1830 · Romanesque
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This watercolour painting shows a serene scene of a mosque and a fountain. The mosque, with its tall minaret and large domes, is the central focus. In the foreground, people are gathered near the fountain, some walking with dogs. The background features a body of water with a few boats, and trees line the left side of the image. The artist's use of soft colours and gentle brushstrokes creates a peaceful atmosphere. The painting's romantic style is evident in its emphasis on beauty and emotion. The Victoria and Albert Museum holds this beautiful piece.

The story of this work

Overview

This watercolour drawing depicts the Tophane Çeşmesi fountain alongside the Kılıç Ali Paşa Camii in Constantinople, dated to 1830. It may be a copy or derivative of works by an anonymous Greek artist associated with Lord Byron and John Cam Hobhouse’s 1809–10 travels. The drawing is part of a group (SD.1263–1268) likely created by the same hand, possibly an English visitor to the city. The work is connected to earlier attributions linked to the English School in the Searight Archive.

Read the full account in the museum source.