Catalog Archive
Auction 137, Lot 679

"Palmyra alias Tadmor", Bruyn, Cornelius de

Subject: Palmyra, Syria

Period: 1698 (circa)

Publication: Reizen door de vermaardste Deelen van Klein Asia

Color: Hand Color

Size:
25 x 11 inches
63.5 x 27.9 cm
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This striking view shows the ruins of the ancient city, which was known as a vital caravan city for travelers crossing the Syrian desert. Several ruins are marked on the view, including the Temple of Bel (B), the colonnade of the Decumanus (D), and the ancient tombs (F). Cornelius de Bruyn (1652-1726) was a Dutch artist who traveled through the Holy Land and other portions of Asia. De Bruyn had to disguise his activities because this was a repressive period during the Ottoman rule when foreigners were regarded with suspicion and the making of "graven images" was prohibited. De Bruyn avoided detection by pretending to be picnicking with two Franciscan monks who stood guard while he made his drawings. His works are particularly historically valuable because of their accuracy.

References:

Condition: B

A 1" tear between the letters "C" and "D" and a tear that enters map image 5.5" at bottom have both been professionally repaired. A few creases and minor soiling.

Estimate: $350 - $450

Sold for: $250

Closed on 9/14/2011

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