Otto Pilny (Swiss 1866-1936), North African Street Scene, oil on panel, dated 1901 bottom right, framed. Measurements 34 x 24 cm, framed 50 x 39 cm

Otto Pilny was a Swiss painter who specialised in the Oriental genre. He spent much of his career in Egypt and was appointed the Court Painter to the Ottoman authorities there. He is most famous for his North African landscapes and depictions of Bedouins, becoming one of the first European painters to also paint Muslims at prayer.

Condition Report

The painting is an oil on panel, framed without glazing. The panel appears in good condition with no obvious signs of splitting or warping. The paint surface has craquelure present and some paint loss to the top area in the sky. There is a chip to the top-centre-left edge which does have some flaking of the paint. There is a surface scratch to the right side of the palm tree and a small chip to the right of the tree above the buildings. There is some damage to the top-right corner there is blue pigment over the damage which matches the sky.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.