Vanmour, Jean Baptiste – Turkse vrouwen in de omgeving van Constantinopel bekijken een verschijning in de lucht, 1727-1737 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The scene unfolds as a group of women, dressed in elaborate Ottoman attire, observe a spectacle occurring within the sky. They are positioned near what appears to be a body of water, with a cityscape faintly visible on the horizon line. The composition is framed by dense foliage, creating an intimate and somewhat secluded setting for this unusual event.
The central focus lies on the ethereal figure suspended in the air. It seems to be depicted as a male form, seemingly weightless and radiating a soft glow. His posture suggests a gesture of blessing or perhaps divine intervention. The women’s reactions vary; some appear captivated by the apparition, while others display expressions ranging from curiosity to awe. A man, presumably an attendant or guide, gestures towards the figure with a staff, directing the attention of the group.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – greens and browns in the foliage, muted blues and grays in the sky, and rich reds and oranges in the womens garments. This contributes to a sense of realism while also creating an atmosphere of mystery surrounding the celestial event. The light source seems to emanate from the figure itself, casting a gentle illumination on the group below.
Beyond the immediate narrative, several subtexts emerge. The depiction of Ottoman women in such a setting suggests an interest in portraying exotic cultures for European audiences during this period. Their attire and gestures are rendered with meticulous detail, likely intended to convey a sense of authenticity while simultaneously reinforcing stereotypes about Eastern customs. The apparition itself could be interpreted as a representation of religious or supernatural phenomena, perhaps reflecting the artists attempt to reconcile different cultural beliefs. It is also possible that the scene alludes to historical events or folklore associated with divine appearances in the region.
The overall effect is one of wonder and intrigue, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of faith, spectacle, and cross-cultural encounters. The painting’s composition and color scheme work together to create a visually compelling narrative that blends elements of realism and fantasy.