Oil on canvas, signed 'J. Cook. Fecit' lower right.

32 x 44 in., 38 x 50 in. (frame).

Note: This painting is one of a rare few works in existence by English maritime painter John Cook. Known for his views of the Mediterranean, Cook often painted scenes of Alexandria, as here. By the 18th century, this Egyptian port had become important as the first stop for travelers taking the overland route to the sub-continent. The journey through Egypt was much quicker than that by sea which involved crossing two oceans via the Cape of Good Hope. A version of this painting, dating to circa 1720, is in the collection of the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.

Arthur Tooth & Sons, London; sold Christie's, London, January 26, 1951, Lot 4; Private Collection, New York.

Craquelure and surface soiling. A small area of inpainting at the upper right edge. Rubbing around the edges under the frame. Otherwise in good condition.