Damascus (Moonlight)

This study was made during Leighton’s trip to Damascus in 1873. Leighton was fascinated by the way in which light changed throughout the day. Here he has capture the rooftops of Damascus bathed in brilliant moonlight, under a rich luminous blue sky. The minaret is probably based on that of the al-Jarrah mosque, which is notable for its square base and octagonal upper section. During this trip to Damascus Leighton purchased a number of the tiles which he would later display in the Arab Hall.