Ladies’ Outing at Hünkâr İskelesi along the Bosporus — Jean Baptiste Vanmour

Jean Baptiste Vanmour. Painted c. 1720 - c. 1737.

In summer, wealthy inhabitants of Istanbul fled the hot and humid city in search of cooler weather along the banks of the Bosporus. These outings were virtually the only diversion that women could enjoy outside their homes. The women of the sultan’s harem sometimes went on picnics. Vanmour probably painted one such occasion here. A black eunuch stands guard to keep out uninvited guests (men).

From the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Currently on display in Main building, 18th Century, At the Ottoman court.

canvas, oil paint (paint) · Original size: 101 × 78 cm

Print: 101 × 78 cm, printed on Hahnemühle FineArt archival cotton paper. Museum-grade reproduction quality, true to the colours and detail of the original work.

Frame (optional): a custom-made wooden frame in a matte black finish, cut to the exact dimensions of this print, with an off-white passe-partout mat and protective glazing. Ready to hang.

Source: https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200108081. Image released under CC0 by the Rijksmuseum.