Arabian Charger Seller

Step into the captivating world of 19th-century Orientalism with Arabian Charger Seller by Antonio Rivas, a masterful watercolor on paper laid to board. This exquisite work immerses viewers in a richly detailed marketplace scene, where a regal Black woman, adorned in traditional attire and intricate jewelry, stands upon a lavishly patterned rug. She presents finely crafted porcelain dishes, each an embodiment of the era’s fascination with Eastern aesthetics. The carefully rendered architectural backdrop, with its Arabic influences, enhances the sense of place, evoking the grandeur and mystique of a bygone world.

A celebrated artist of his time, Antonio Rivas was known for his skillful execution of Orientalist subjects, blending realism with a romanticized vision of distant cultures. His meticulous attention to texture, light, and ornamentation is evident in Arabian Charger Seller, a testament to his ability to capture the opulence and atmosphere of the East. The interplay of warm, sunlit hues and intricate detailing exemplifies the mastery of a painter deeply engaged with the aesthetic traditions of Orientalism.

This remarkable work, measuring 29.5 x 21.25 inches in its frame, bears Rivas' signature, "A.A. Rivas," in the lower left, confirming its authenticity and connection to his artistic legacy. With a provenance including a sale at Susanin’s Auctioneers & Appraisers in Chicago, this piece is both a striking visual statement and a treasured historical artifact. Whether as a collector’s centerpiece or a distinguished decorative addition, Arabian Charger Seller invites admiration for its elegance, cultural depth, and masterful execution.