Uele, Jean-Pierre-Laurent. Antique baths in Carmelite Monastery al Indiritstso in Catania Hermitage ~ part 12

The drawing presents a vast interior space, seemingly a subterranean chamber or vault constructed from roughly hewn stone. The architecture is characterized by rounded arches and a barrel-vaulted ceiling, suggesting Romanesque or Byzantine influences. Light enters the scene primarily from an unseen source at the far end, creating a dramatic contrast between illuminated areas and deep shadows that obscure much of the background.
Here we see three figures in dark robes, likely monks given their attire, engaged in what appears to be a laborious task. One figure is leading a donkey laden with materials – possibly stones or supplies – while the others seem to be directing its movement or assisting with unloading. The presence of the animal and the evident effort involved imply a project of restoration or maintenance within this ancient structure.
A large, cylindrical object leans against the wall on the left side of the composition; it could be a rolled canvas, a section of pipe, or some other architectural element removed for repair. Its placement suggests an ongoing intervention in the buildings fabric. The floor is uneven and covered with debris, reinforcing the impression of a space undergoing work.
The artist’s use of watercolor allows for a delicate rendering of texture and light. The stone surfaces are depicted with varying degrees of dampness and discoloration, contributing to a sense of age and decay. The muted palette – dominated by browns, grays, and ochres – further emphasizes the somber atmosphere and the weight of history embedded within this location.
Subtly, the drawing conveys themes of labor, faith, and preservation. The monks’ dedication to maintaining this ancient site hints at a reverence for the past and a commitment to its continued existence. The scene evokes a sense of quiet contemplation and the enduring power of human effort in the face of times passage. The scale of the space dwarfs the figures, underscoring their role as custodians of something far larger than themselves.