Cafe House, Cairo (Casting Bullets)

Jean-Léon Gérôme

Created:
Movement:
1884
Realism
key Notes:
Orientalist depiction; meticulous detail
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Dimensions:
21 1/2 x 24 3/4 in. (54.6 x 62.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Cafe House, Cairo (Casting Bullets)" is a painting by French artist Jean-Léon Gérôme, created in 1884 or earlier. Gérôme was known for his academic style and Orientalist themes, often depicting scenes from the Middle East and North Africa. The painting illustrates a café scene in Cairo, showcasing figures engaged in the process of casting bullets, which reflects the daily life and craftsmanship of the region. Gérôme's work is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, vibrant colors, and dramatic lighting. The painting exemplifies the artist's fascination with exotic subjects and his ability to convey a sense of place and culture. The exact provenance and exhibition history of this specific work are not well-documented. Gérôme's influence on the art world remains significant, particularly in the context of 19th-century Orientalism.

Description of the work:

"Cafe House, Cairo (Casting Bullets)" by Jean-Léon Gérôme is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a bustling scene within a café in Cairo. The composition features a group of men engaged in the activity of casting bullets, showcasing their focused expressions and intricate details of their attire. The warm color palette, dominated by earthy tones, evokes the atmosphere of the setting, while the interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the figures and surroundings. Gérôme's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the textures of the fabrics and the objects present, enhancing the realism of the scene. The background includes architectural elements characteristic of Egyptian design, contributing to the cultural context of the work. Overall, the painting captures a moment of daily life, reflecting Gérôme's interest in Orientalist themes and his skill in rendering human figures and environments.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Cafe House, Cairo (Casting Bullets)