Rudolf Ernst (Austrian, 1854-1932)

Tending the Lamp, is a wondrous compilation of selected designs from different sources such as Algeria, Tunisia, Turkey and Andalusian Spain. Ernst's exceptional mastery lies in his ability to combine layers of genuine artefacts in order to create outstanding fantasy. Details such as the 19th century Syrian bronze lamp on the left of the chieftain, which was also depicted in An elegant chieftain in his palace (fig. 1.), the 18th century Ottoman sash tied around his waist and the blue and green Moroccan octagonal tiles are part of Ernst's classic repertory. The whole is set against a background of Hispano-Moresque architecture inspired by the Alhambra and exemplifies Ernst's skill in visually cross-referencing the archetypal designs of various regions in order to create an extraordinarily evocative composition.