A Mosque

A mosque serves as the backdrop for this scene of village life, which features many figures outfitted in European-style military uniforms. Here, focusing on the lively mix of cultures, Pasini drew upon his extensive travels in the Middle East, which served as the source material for his paintings. His first opportunity to see this part of the world came in 1855, when he replaced his friend Théodore Chassériau as the official artist on a diplomatic mission to Persia.