Feluccas on the Nile 

Joseph Farquharson created this oil on canvas painting to capture the serene scene of feluccas sailing on the Nile. The painting's appeal lies in the ways that Farquharson applied the oil paints. We can observe the individual brushstrokes used to build up layers of colour and texture, giving us a sense of the canvas's material presence. The handling of the oil paint itself is also very interesting, where he used thin washes of pigment to create the tranquil atmosphere and reflections on the water. The materials and techniques are quite traditional, which highlights the value of skilled craftsmanship and the tradition of plein air painting. Oil painting has a long history, but it's also very tied to industrial production and global trade. Pigments are sourced from various locations, and the canvas and brushes are often manufactured in factories. Ultimately, understanding the materials and making processes involved in "Feluccas on the Nile" deepens our appreciation for the artwork. It allows us to consider the complex relationship between the artist, materials, and broader socio-economic context in which the work was created.