General view of the Island of Philæ, Nubia. Nov. 18th — History & Facts
In General view of the Island of Philæ, Nubia. Nov. 18th, David Roberts captures a vibrant landscape filled with warm earth tones and lush greenery.
The painting features the iconic temple structures of Philæ, set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky. The use of light and shadow adds depth to the scene, highlighting the architectural details. The overall composition invites viewers to immerse themselves in this historical site. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich color saturation and texture.
Roberts employs a realistic style, typical of the Romanticism movement, emphasizing both the beauty of nature and the grandeur of human-made structures. The dimensions are approximately 90 x 120 cm, making it a substantial piece that commands attention. Viewers can appreciate the meticulous brushwork and attention to detail in the depiction of the temple ruins. David Roberts was a Scottish painter known for his detailed landscapes and architectural views, particularly of the Middle East and Egypt.
This work, created in the 1840s, reflects his travels and fascination with ancient sites. An interesting fact about this painting is that it was part of a series that documented his journey through Egypt and Nubia, contributing significantly to Western perceptions of these regions during the 19th century. Roberts' works remain important historical documents as well as artistic achievements.
More Artworks by David Roberts

Approach to the Fortress of Ibrim.
David Roberts

Karnac [Karnak]. Nov. 29th, 1838.
David Roberts

General view of the ruins of Luxor, from the Nile. 1838.
David Roberts

Pompey’s Pillar, Alexandria.
David Roberts

Temple of Kalabshee [Kalabsha, Kalâbishah], Nubia. Nov. 1838.
David Roberts

Thebes. Great Hall at Karnak. Nov. 28, 1838.
David Roberts

The Fortress of the Alhambra, Granada
David Roberts

Entrance to the tombs of the kings of Thebes. Bab-el-Malouk [Bîbân al-Mulûk].
David Roberts

Temple of Edfou [Idfû], ancient Appolinopolis, Upper Egypt.
David Roberts

Statues of Memnon at Thebes, during the inundation.
David Roberts
More Landscape Art

The Starry Night
Vincent van Gogh

View of Delft
Johannes Vermeer

Water Lilies
Claude Monet

The Grand Canal, Venice, looking north-west from the Ca' Corner to the Ca' Contarini degli Scrigni, with the campanile of Santa Maria della Carità
Canaletto

Windsor Castle
Canaletto

The Grand Canal looking North-East from the Palazzo Dolfin-Manin to the Rialto Bridge
Canaletto
