Edwin Lord Weeks (1849–1903) was one of the foremost American Orientalist painters of the 19th century. Born in Boston and trained in Paris under Jean-Léon Gérôme, Weeks distinguished himself through firsthand exploration of the regions he painted. His extensive travels through Morocco, Egypt, Persia, and especially India gave his work a rare level of authenticity and observational detail within the Orientalist tradition.

Weeks’s paintings often depict sunlit palace courtyards, camel caravans, Indian temples, and bustling markets. His use of dramatic perspective, saturated color, and rich architectural framing immerses the viewer in a specific time and place. Unlike some of his peers, Weeks emphasized accuracy over fantasy, balancing romanticism with documentary precision.

Highly regarded during his lifetime and still sought after today, Weeks’s paintings are held in major museums and private collections alike. His oils are typically large-scale and richly detailed, making them prized focal points for collectors of both American and Orientalist art. Smaller studies and watercolors are also collected and appreciated for their immediacy and insight into his process.

When evaluating a Weeks piece, consider the depth of perspective, architectural fidelity, and the rendering of light—all hallmarks of his mature style. Pieces that feature identifiable locations, especially in India, are particularly desirable. Original frames and exhibition labels can add historical depth. Whether for scholarly appreciation or visual impact, Weeks’s work delivers richness and credibility few others in the genre can match.