Interior of the Capella Palatina

Leighton made this study of the Capella Palatina in Palermo during a trip to Sicily probably in the 1870s. The Cappella Palatina is notable for its harmonious combination of Romanesque, Islamic and Byzantine influences. Leighton has carefully recorded these elements in his study, detailing the honeycombed wooden vaulting and golden light of the mosaic dome beyond. The architecture Leighton encountered in Sicily was to have a significant impact on his own home. This study and the interior of La Zisa Palace, also in Palermo, were definite sources of inspiration for the Arab Hall.

c.1870

Oil on canvas

54.0 x 41.0 x 3.0 cm

2015-0001

Acquired in 2015 with the generous support of the Friends of Leighton House and the ACE/V&A Purchase Grant Fund. Image and text © The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London, 2020.