A watercolour cityscape by Vasily Polenov, 'Cordoba' captures the light and architecture of the Spanish city with loose, expressive brushwork and a warm colour palette.

Vasily Polenov (1844-1927) was a Russian painter associated with the передвижники (The Wanderers), a realist movement that sought to depict Russian life and society. Polenov, however, also spent considerable time travelling in Europe and the Middle East, producing landscapes and architectural studies. He is known for his lyrical style and his ability to capture light and atmosphere. 'Cordoba' presents a view of the Spanish city, likely painted en plein air. The watercolour technique lends itself to capturing the bright sunlight and the distinctive architecture. The composition is divided into distinct planes, with the buildings in the foreground casting shadows on the street. In the distance, a hill rises, topped with a fortress or ancient structure, rendered in soft blues and greens. The colour palette is dominated by yellows, blues, and greens, creating a sense of warmth and light. The brushwork is loose and expressive, capturing the essence of the scene rather than precise detail. Tall, slender trees punctuate the left side of the composition, adding verticality and a sense of scale.