Impressions of Oman & the Gulf: Nineteenth-Century Sketches by Charles Golding Constable

Charles Golding Constable, the son of British painter John Constable, created watercolour sketches of coastal Oman and the Gulf during the 1840s and 1850s. This collection includes 29 watercolours, a chart, and a transcript of his commonplace book, on long-term loan from Sheikh Fahad bin Abdullah bin Ali al-Araimi at the National Museum – Sultanate of Oman.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

Artists have been captivated by the picturesque settlements and dramatic landscapes of Oman for centuries. In the 1840s and 1850s, Charles Golding Constable, the second son of British painter John Constable, undertook a series of watercolour sketches of coastal Oman and other Gulf locations as a maritime surveyor for the East India Company. This remarkable collection, spanning over 100 years, features 29 of Constable's watercolours, alongside his renowned 1860 chart of the Gulf. Additionally, it includes a full facsimile and transcript of the commonplace book that he meticulously documented during his voyages. On permanent loan from Sheikh Fahad bin Abdullah bin Ali al-Araimi at the National Museum – Sultanate of Oman, this collection offers a glimpse into the artistic journey of Constable and the historical backdrop of his masterpieces.

Impressions of Oman & the Gulf, authored by J.E. Peterson, a renowned historian of the region, provides an insightful introduction that offers a biographical portrait of Constable and sheds light on the historical context of his artworks. Peterson's expertise and knowledge bring forth a deeper understanding of Constable's artistic vision and the significance of his contributions to the art world.

This captivating collection showcases Constable's exceptional talent for capturing the beauty and essence of Oman's landscapes. From the serene beaches and rugged cliffs to the bustling ports and intricate cityscapes, his watercolours evoke a sense of wonder and awe. Each brushstroke reveals his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey the mood and atmosphere of the places he visited. Constable's artworks not only showcase the natural beauty of Oman but also provide a window into the cultural and historical richness of the region. They capture the essence of the local people, their customs, and their way of life, adding a human touch to his paintings.

In addition to the visual appeal of Constable's watercolours, this collection also offers valuable insights into the historical and political context of the Gulf region during the 19th century. Constable's voyages as a maritime surveyor for the East India Company allowed him to observe firsthand the evolving trade routes, colonial expansions, and cultural interactions between different nations. His artworks serve as a historical record of the region's development and transformation, providing a valuable resource for researchers and historians alike.

Overall, Impressions of Oman & the Gulf is a remarkable testament to the artistic talent and historical significance of Charles Golding Constable. It offers a glimpse into the life and work of this renowned artist and provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in art, history, and the captivating landscapes of Oman.

Weight: 2048g
Dimension: 310 x 250 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785514791