La Charité chez les derviches à Scutari 

Rudolf Ernst painted 'La Charité chez les derviches à Scutari' using oil on canvas. Ernst was known for Orientalist scenes and the way he rendered textiles and architectural details. The architecture in the painting is brought to life through Ernst’s careful application of paint, from the cool smoothness of glazed ceramic tiles to the warm texture of woven rugs. Consider the fine brushwork used to depict the clothing of the figures, contrasting matte and shiny surfaces to create the illusion of silk and wool. The artist's skillful use of light enhances the textures, emphasizing the folds, creases, and adornments that convey the material richness of the scene. It’s worth noting the labor-intensive process involved, the stretching and preparation of the canvas, the grinding and mixing of pigments, and the slow accretion of detail. Ernst's painting invites us to appreciate not just the scene depicted, but also the tangible skill that makes it visible.