JOHN FREDERICK LEWIS, R.A. | The Hypaethral Temple at Philae, Upper Egypt

Artist's studio sale, Christie’s, 5 July 1855, lot 137, as ‘The Hypaethral Temple, at Philae' A very elaborate and beautiful work ‘, to ‘Col’ (probably Colnaghi) for £12 12; 
Sotheby's, 9 November 1995, lot 157

London, The Fine Art Society, Spring ‘96, no.16;
London, The Fine Art Society, Style: Art & Design 1830-1880, 1998, no.17

The sheet undulates slightly. Some time staining and fading throughout. There are scattered specks of surface dirt and a few minor spots of foxing, some of which appear to have been treated. The work apperas to be in fair overall condition. Held under glass in a decorative gilt frame and slip. Please note that this work has not been examined out of its 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."

John Frederick Lewis spent ten years in Egypt arriving there in late 1841. However, it was not until 1850 that he made a trip along the Nile visiting, Edfou, Thebes and Philae. The Temple at Philae, also known as the Bed of the Pharaoh, dates from the Roman period, built under Emperor Trajan (A.D. 98-117). It was intended as a monumental entrance to the temples on the island of Philae but was never completed.