Orientalist School Late 19th Century / Maghreb Water Carrier / Gouache And Watercolor

This ORIENTALIST work from the end of the 19th century, made in gouache and watercolor, represents a water seller. The character is from the Maghreb, dressed in a striped wool burnous, with an animal fur bag on the side and bells to announce his service. In his hand, he holds a golden bowl, typically used to serve water, a symbol of his activity.

43.5 x 30 without frame
50 x 36.5 with frame
signed Saint-Marc Levier lower left

The artist, through a fluid technique combining details and light colors, captures a scene of daily life. He carefully illustrates the seller's tools, highlighting the function and simplicity of the profession, while integrating a touch of exoticism, typical of orientalist works. This representation reinforces the idea of a modest but essential figure, often seen in the cities of the Maghreb, such as Marrakech or Algiers.

A very beautiful period orientalist wooden frame, carved in a dark wood, probably walnut or mahogany. It presents complex geometric patterns, typical of Islamic art. These repetitive and symmetrical arabesque patterns are characteristic of North African decorative styles. The inner border of the frame is more sober and smooth, which highlights the work without distracting attention. This type of frame reinforces the artisanal and traditional aspect of the work, adding a cultural and aesthetic dimension to the composition. The work is in very good general condition, some small old spots of mold on the background paper, without any impact on the main image.