The Exterior of the Holy Sepulchre and Calvary 

David Roberts, a Scottish painter known for his detailed Orientalist scenes, created this watercolor titled ‘The Exterior of the Holy Sepulchre and Calvary.’ Roberts traveled extensively in the Middle East during the 1830s, at a time when European interest in the region was burgeoning. He meticulously documented the architecture and landscapes he encountered, often depicting them with a romantic and idealized vision. While Roberts aimed to present accurate representations, his work also reflects the power dynamics inherent in the colonial gaze, showing the East through a Western lens. Here, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre becomes more than a depiction of place, but an evocation of piety, longing, and the weight of religious history. The soft colors and delicate brushwork create a sense of serenity, while the presence of praying figures adds a human dimension to the grand architecture. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which cultural exchange shapes our understanding of history, faith, and the world around us.