Hermann Corrodi

Private collection, France

The canvas has not been lined. Ultra-violet light reveals small scattered spots of cosmetic retouching in the sand in the lower right, in the sky in the upper right and left corner and in the upper half of the composition. One small area of retouching is also visible in the extreme lower left corner. The signature appears to have been abraded and the first two letters lightly strengthened. The rest of the signature appears to be un-strengthened and does not fluoresce when inspected under UV. This work is in good condition and ready to hang. Presented in decorative gilt frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This panoramic view of the Cairo skyline takes in an array of monuments, minarets, and mosques, while evoking of everyday life of Bedouin traders camping outside the city walls, presumably to sell and buy goods. On the right stands the walled mosque and mausoleum complex of Sultan al-Ashraf Qaytbay, the outer dome of whose mosque is often cited as the apogee of Mamluk dome design in Cairo due to its complex stone-carved decorative pattern, which features a central geometric star radiating from the apex of the dome and an arabesque floral design which are superimposed and enhanced by natural shadows. Corrodi brilliantly captures the view it bathed in the evening desert light.