Edward Lear, Khaneá (or Canea), Crete.
Inscribed, numbered and dated ‘…4 P.M./18.April/64/Kanea. [in Greek] Crete (20)’ (lower right) and further inscribed ‘Hoopoes’ (lower left) and variously inscribed with colour notes. Pencil, pen and ink and watercolour on blue paper. 6 3/8 x 9 7/8 in. (16.2 x 25.1 cm.).
The present drawing was executed in the neighbourhood of Canea during Lear’s visit to Crete in 1864. He left Corfu on 4 April, travelled via Athens, and arrived at Canea, the chief harbour in the west of Crete, on 11 April, a few days before the present drawing was executed. From 14 April, Lear stayed in Mr Guarracino’s country house at Halépa, exploring the district, and then left Crete on 31 May for England.
A Blog of Bosh 