Caravan in Jeddah (Old Town Landscape)
Work on paper (drawing/watercolor) • Heinz Blomfeld (signed and dated lower right)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern illustration; architectural topographical art
Medium & Technique
Pen and ink with watercolor wash on paper; features cross-hatching and architectural line drawing
Creation Period
1969
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 9 inches; portrait orientation
Subject Description
A Middle Eastern street scene depicting a caravan of three camels led by a figure in the foreground. The background features traditional Hejazi architecture with ornate wooden 'rawashin' balconies, characteristic of historical Al-Balad in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing typical signs of age-related paper oxidation
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired in the Middle East or Europe during the late 1960s; appears to be in a private collection with contemporary framing
Art Historical Significance
A documentary record of historical Arabian architecture by a Western artist during the mid-20th century, capturing the transition between traditional transport and modern urbanization.
Notable Features
Distinctively signed and dated 'Heinz Blomfeld 1969' in the lower right corner; captures the intricate details of 'mashrabiya' lattice work with graphic precision
Condition Issues
Visible yellowing/toning of the paper consistent with age; minor undulation of the paper support; potential light fading of watercolor pigments
Conservation Recommendations
Remount using acid-free, archival materials; use UV-protective museum glass for framing to prevent further fading; maintain in a stable, climate-controlled environment