Description

A magnificent and rare original watercolor painting by the renowned Israeli artist Leon Azoulay (b. 1945). This captivating piece depicts the iconic skyline of the Old City of Jerusalem, focusing on the Dome of the Rock.

Azoulay's unique artistic signature is a fusion of illustrative art and micro-calligraphy, where entire biblical passages, prayers, or religious chants are meticulously written in minute Hebrew letters to form elements of the composition. In this painting, these intricate texts create the texture and shape of the clouds and potentially other landscape elements, adding a profound depth and spiritual layer to the visual scene.

The artwork is particularly notable for its historical accuracy in portraying the Dome of the Rock with its earlier leaden-grey dome, a feature that predates the 1961 renovation when it was covered with gold leaf. This detail helps place the work within an earlier tradition of depicting the sacred site.

The painting is personally signed by the artist in the lower right corner. It represents a significant work for collectors of fine Judaica, Middle Eastern art, or those who appreciate the unique fusion of traditional painting with this specialized calligraphic technique.

Dimensions: H:36in W:31in