This watercolour and ink picture presents a nostalgic view of a part of Nicosia within the walls and, specifically, the street in front of the Baths of Omeriye (Hamam Omeriye).
The red car is typical of the times as is the peddler on the right. The dome of the Baths protrudes in the middle of the picture obstructed from total view by some shacks which no longer exist.
Once upon a time, this was a coffee shop as revealed by the chairs at the front. A line of washing and the huge coca-cola sign are in accordance with the period when Cyprus was entering modernity. The picture catches a moment of transition in Cyprus’ history when the traditional started giving way to the modern.
Sydney Arrobus was born in Cricklewood, London, England in 1901. He studied at Heatherley’s School of Fine Art in London, and began his career as a commercial artist, designing book jackets, posters and greeting cards. He then served as a non-commissioned officer in France, Egypt, Syria, and Greece during the Second World War.
His work was shown widely, including at the Royal Institute of Painters and Watercolours, and by the Hampstead Artists’ Council. He also held solo exhibitions, and established an Award for watercolour painters in 1989. He was a well-known figure in Hampstead, often visible sketching the local streets, houses, and shops. Arrobus died in Haverstock Hill, Hampstead in 1990. His work is also held in the National Portrait Gallery.
PNT-00039 > Arrobus, Sydney (1901-1990) > Nicosia, 1 March 1968, Watercolour and Ink, 14x22 cm, 1948
The 'Sneak Peek' series is supported by The Hellenic Initiative Canada.
