Frederic Leighton: Damascus

"Wedded" by Frederic Leighton

The winter of 1872-73 saw Frederic Leighton in Syria, a country which had vast charms for him. The dream of a lifetime was realized when he gazed for the first time on the almost fabled city of Damascus. Three things struck him especially - the old-world associations of the place itself, the silent, majestic manners of the people, and the remarkable effects of sky and atmosphere.

One afternoon a resident of the city, Dr. William Wright, was paid a visit by Leighton while sitting upon his rooftop. After a courteous greeting, Leighton sat down and became silent, absolutely wrapped up in the pageantry of the sky. After some time he turned to Wright and said, 

'No artist ever wasted time in accurately observing natural phenomena. That sunset will mix with my paint, and will tint your ink as long as either of us lives. It will never be over; it has dyed our spirits in colours which can never be washed out.'

The city's bazaars had an immense fascination for Leighton. He made Wright go with him to assist in the purchase of valuable antique draperies. Wright's archaeological discoveries greatly interested Leighton, especially the site of the ancient pottery kilns where fine Kishani ware was originally baked. Here he bought quantities of tiles and plates and long-necked jars with white floral designs on blue grounds. Leighton made studies of architecture and of female beauties, and pencil drawings of heads and of plant life. 

A certain Greek living in Damascus had many exquisite enamels which Leighton much admired. He also had a lovely daughter which Leighton drew many times. She is reproduced in that charming canvas 'Wedded,' exhibited in 1882. The spell which Old and New Damascus cast over Leighton continued to work its sway for many a year."

To be continued

(Excerpts from 'Lord Leighton of Stretton, P.R.A." by Edgcumbe Staley.)