Captive Dove, Kaïro 1864

"Captive Dove, Kaïro" is a painting by John Frederick Lewis, created in 1864, and currently housed in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge. This work is a depiction of a woman in traditional Middle Eastern clothing, holding a dove in her outstretched hand. The scene is set in a luxurious interior, with intricate details like patterned textiles and carved woodwork, evoking the artist's fascination with Orientalist themes, a popular genre in the 19th century. Lewis's interest in capturing the exotic beauty and culture of the Middle East is evident in the painting's rich colors and intricate details. The painting is considered a fine example of Lewis's signature style, which combined meticulous realism with romanticism and a sense of mystery.