Mosque interior 1839

Editor: So, here we have William Leighton Leitch’s “Mosque Interior,” a watercolour from 1839. It’s captivating; the details are so intricate, and yet there’s this… unrestored quality. Like stumbling into a forgotten place. What catches your eye in this work? Curator: Oh, "forgotten" is the perfect word! For me, it’s about the artist playing with light. Look how it streams – or rather, whispers – through the arches. The watercolor almost glows, doesn’t it? What about the people; are they resting, loitering or perhaps the image freezes them between jobs? Editor: Yes, that delicate glow! It almost romanticizes the scene, despite the debris and what looks like ongoing construction. What are your thoughts about the scene in general, how does this interior construction contrasts against this sacred architecture and everyday life? Curator: A space evolving is not out of keeping. Even sacred spaces undergo endless physical iterations to either modernize, fix wear-and-tear or evolve according to community values and styles. This is quite a busy image, and this can cause one to overlook the overall calm and sacred tone. Perhaps the artist is capturing the quiet beauty of continuous process and renewal? Editor: I see your point. I think that busy-ness with people and their lives makes it very alive! It feels authentic, like a snapshot instead of a staged portrayal of religious sanctity. I hadn’t thought about that inherent sense of constant renewal. Curator: Art’s funny that way, isn’t it? What seemed broken down at first can reveal cycles of continuity when you really look closely. The image feels busy due to a clash of style; some might label as orientalism for example and struggle to align it with "spiritual." I wonder how the community feel in their everyday. What has changed; what remains? It begs for deep self-reflection beyond the painting and deeper into human needs. Editor: Absolutely, you have given me a deeper appreciation. Thank you.