Home > Africa > Algeria > Algiers
Fountain in Small Square, Algiers, 1858. Creator: Unknown
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Fountain in Small Square, Algiers, 1858. Creator: Unknown
Fountain in Small Square, Algiers, 1858. In all Mohammedan cities fountains are very numerous and picturesque, and often magnificent. Around them characteristic groups are always assembled, and water-jars are very graceful accessories. At Algiers the professional water-carriers are the Biskri, an industrious race from the oases of the Great Sahara...At or near each fountain there is always a group of Biskri, with their large copper water-jars, waiting for employment, of which there is plenty, for many of the houses draw their entire supply of water from the public fountains...Many of the Moorish fountains were destroyed in the course of the alterations made in the lower town by the French, but they have been replaced by others, in which the Saracenic character has been preserved. One of these is in one of the narrow steep streets leading up to the Casbah...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36375978
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Algeria Algerian Algiers El Djazair Algeria Fountain Fountains Hispano Arabic Moorish North Africa North African Spring Water Supply
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Algeria
> Related Images
> Architecture
> Country
> Africa
> Architecture
> Country
> France
> Architecture
> Styles
> Islamic Architecture
> Religious Art
> Religious Architecture
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image, taken from the Illustrated London News in 1858, showcases the Fountain in Small Square of Algiers, Algeria. In the heart of this bustling North African city, fountains were a common and beautiful sight. The intricate designs and grandeur of these water features were a hallmark of Moorish architecture. The professional water-carriers, known as Biskri, are prominently featured in this scene. Originating from the oases of the Great Sahara, these industrious individuals were responsible for supplying water to households. They waited near the fountains, their large copper water jars at the ready, for employment, which was plentiful as many homes drew their entire water supply from these public sources. Unfortunately, many of the historic Moorish fountains were destroyed during the French alterations of the lower town. However, this particular fountain, located in one of the narrow, steep streets leading up to the Casbah, has been preserved. Its Saracenic character remains intact, a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Algiers. This photograph, taken during the 19th century, offers a glimpse into the daily life of this North African city. The image is filled with intriguing details, from the ornate fountain design to the Biskri and their water jars. This scene is a reminder of the unique blend of Islamic, Hispano-Arabic, and European influences that make Algiers such a fascinating destination.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
