Interior of the Residence of the Pasha, New Orsova 1838

John Frederick Lewis's 1838 drawing "Interior of the Residence of the Pasha, New Orsova" depicts the interior of a lavishly decorated room in the residence of a Pasha. The artwork is rendered in delicate pencil lines, capturing the intricate details of the carved woodwork, furnishings, and the patterned textiles used throughout the space. In the foreground, the Pasha himself is seated on a divan, wearing traditional Ottoman garb and holding a long pipe. The scene portrays the relaxed and luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by high-ranking officials in the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century. Lewis, known for his meticulous and evocative depictions of Middle Eastern life, skillfully evokes a sense of tranquility and opulence in this captivating composition.