Tombs of Great Arab Saints to be seen in the Neighborhood of Rosetta, Egypt

This work by Italian artist Luigi Mayer is part of the "Views of Egypt" series, created during a tour of the East by British aristocrats. The artist accompanied the British ambassador throughout his mission. This particular watercolor painting depicts Muslim tombs in the vicinity of the city of Rosetta (modern-day Rashid), located in northwestern Egypt between Cairo and Alexandria.

His work, like many by European artists, is important for understanding how the East was perceived by foreigners. They often considered these places mysterious, somewhat mystical, and especially appealing for travel. This is clearly reflected in the painting — subdued, atmospheric, and rendered in soft pastel tones. In the silence, one can almost hear only footsteps and the gentle splash of water.