Karnac [Karnak]. Nov. 29th, 1838

A hand-painted replica of David Roberts’s masterpiece Karnac [Karnak]. Nov. 29th, 1838, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.

"Karnac [Karnak]. Nov. 29th, 1838" is a lithograph created by Scottish artist David Roberts, based on a sketch he made during his travels in Egypt in 1838. David Roberts (1796–1864) was a prominent painter and lithographer known for his detailed and romanticized depictions of architectural and historical sites in the Middle East and North Africa. His works played a significant role in shaping European perceptions of these regions during the 19th century.

This particular lithograph depicts the Karnak Temple Complex, one of the most significant and expansive religious sites of ancient Egypt, located near Luxor (ancient Thebes). The Karnak complex was primarily dedicated to the god Amun-Ra and served as a major center of worship for over 2,000 years. It is renowned for its monumental architecture, including massive columns, obelisks, and intricately carved reliefs. Roberts' artwork captures the grandeur and scale of the ruins, emphasizing their historical and cultural importance.

The lithograph was part of Roberts' larger project, The Holy Land, Syria, Idumea, Arabia, Egypt, and Nubia, a series of 247 lithographs published between 1842 and 1849. These works were based on sketches and studies Roberts made during his extensive travels in the region from 1838 to 1839. The lithographs were produced by Louis Haghe, a master lithographer, who translated Roberts' original drawings into detailed and atmospheric prints. The series was highly acclaimed for its artistic quality and historical value, offering European audiences a glimpse into the ancient and exotic landscapes of the Middle East and North Africa.

"Karnac [Karnak]. Nov. 29th, 1838" specifically reflects Roberts' visit to the Karnak Temple on November 29, 1838. His depiction highlights the temple's massive columns and the interplay of light and shadow, which evoke a sense of awe and timelessness. The artwork also includes figures in the foreground, providing a sense of scale and emphasizing the grandeur of the ancient ruins.

Roberts' works, including this lithograph, were instrumental in popularizing the study of Egyptology and fostering a fascination with ancient Egyptian culture in Europe during the 19th century. They remain valuable both as artistic achievements and as historical records of the sites as they appeared in the early 19th century.