Antique Orientalist oil painting of Biskra by Paul Lazerges

Antique Orientalist oil painting of Biskra by Paul Lazerges
French, 1894
Canvas: Height 39cm, width 46cm
Frame: Height 65cm, width 73cm, depth 10cm
 
This oil on canvas by celebrated French artist Paul Jean Baptiste Lazerges (1845–1902) beautifully captures the architectural splendour of Biskra, Algeria. A prominent Orientalist painter, Lazerges followed in the footsteps of his father, Hippolyte Lazerges (1817–1887), another distinguished figure in the genre.
 
Titled ‘Porte de Biskra’ (Biskra Gate), the painting presents a rare focus on the striking architecture of the gateway rather than human activity. A single figure, possibly a woman based on her attire, stands just beyond the passage, subtly enhancing the sense of depth and intrigue. Lazerges masterfully plays with light and shadow, lending dimension to the scene, while warm, earthy tones seamlessly blend with the intricately carved giltwood frame, creating a harmonious composition. Vibrant accents of blue sky and lush green palm trees in the background add contrast and visual interest.
 
The artwork is signed, inscribed, and dated in the lower right ‘Paul Lazerges / Biskra 1894’. The frame is further adorned with an artist/title plaque.
 
A testament to the beauty of North African landscapes, this distinctive painting makes a compelling addition to any fine art collection, particularly for those with an appreciation for Orientalist paintings.
 
Provenance: In the collection of Galerie Pierre-Yves Gabus, Bevaix, Switzerland, 8 December 1990
 
Artist/Maker: Paul Lazerges