Lot 160: ISLAMIC SCHOOL, LATE 19TH OR EARLY 20TH CENTURY, A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE MASJID AL-HARAM AND THE KAABA, MECCA
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This watercolor and gouache painting on paper presents a schematic, bird’s-eye view of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, with the Kaaba positioned at the centre of the composition. Executed in a traditional Islamic folk art style, the work employs a flattened perspective to depict the sacred site and its surrounding architecture. The composition is annotated with several calligraphic inscriptions in Arabic script, identifying significant religious and topographical landmarks. These include Jabal Arafat, Jabal Abu Qubais, Jabal al-Nour, and Jabal Thawr in the background. Within the mosque complex, the four maqams representing the Sunni schools of law (Hanafi, Hanbali, Shafi’i, and Maliki) are labelled, alongside Bab al-Nabi.
Approximately 66.5 x 45.2cm
Condition report:
The paper exhibits overall toning and discolouration consistent with its age. There are instances of minor foxing across the sheet and a visible area of moisture staining in the lower-right corner. The pigments remain relatively vibrant with no significant evidence of fading, although the medium remains inherently light-sensitive. The modern frame and mount are in good condition.
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