A Gypsy Encampment Frame:black Commissioned for the Polish Royal

Commissioned for the Polish Royal collection

was probably painted in the 1820s

convolvulus minor

which came into use in 1646

The panel is a fragment made up with an addition at the bottom (at present concealed by the frame)

A Gypsy Encampment Frame:black Commissioned for the Polish RoyalThe title given to this painting in the Cartwright Inventory illustrates the belief, still current in the seventeenth century, that Romani people originated from Egypt (the word "gypsy" is a sixteenth century corruption of "Egypt"). The painting combines elements of the known and of the fanciful. Clearly nomadic, the travellers are surrounded by the domestic detritus associated with gypsies although the three turbaned men look distinctly oriental. A