RAPHAEL VON AMBROS | Merchant before the Sabil of Nafisa al-Bayda, Cairo

Sale: Christie's, London, 31 May 2012, lot 184

The panel is flat, even, and ensuring a stable support. Ultra-violet light reveals a thick layer of varnish which makes the surface quite difficult to read. However, some finely applied lines of in-painting addressing some drying craquelure are visible in the lower half of the male figure in the centre of the composition. Otherwise, this work appears to be in good condition and is ready to hang. Presented in a 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."

The Sabil, or public water tap, of Nafisa al-Bayda, is located in the commercial district close to Bab Zuweila in al-Sukariyya, or Sugar Street. It was commissioned in 1796 by Nafisa al-Bayda, the wife of Murad Bey, a Mamluk who, in 1784, became the leader of the resistance against Napoleon's invasion of Egypt. Nafisa was a woman of beauty, wealth, culture, and charity, and became a symbol of women's participation in political life. During the resistance, she played a major role as intermediary between Murad and Napoleon.The location of the sabil was cleverly chosen. Among the masterpieces of late Ottoman architecture in Cairo, it remains visible to anyone entering the city from the south (fig. 1). It has always attracted the attention of travellers, writers and visitors alike. The slim rounded façade adorned with marble columns, geometric motifs masterfully carved on its limestone walls, and elaborate wooden eaves is not only visually attractive, but reveals much about the taste of its founder.