Jerusalem Houses is a powerful oil on canvas painting by Pinchas Litvinovsky, measuring 35 x 50 cm. The composition captures an intimate view of simple Jerusalem dwellings — arched windows, earthy stone walls, and laundry strung across the courtyard. Through bold brushwork and expressive color, Litvinovsky transforms an ordinary setting into a vibrant reflection of life in the city.
The Painting
The palette is filled with warm ochres, reds, and browns, contrasted by cooler blues and greens in the background. The brushstrokes are loose and, also, gestural, suggesting movement in both trees and walls. A striking detail is the laundry line stretched across the scene, a reminder of everyday resilience. Against the timeless hills of Jerusalem, this simple act becomes a symbol of continuity and tradition. Unlike purely realistic depictions, Litvinovsky’s work conveys atmosphere and memory.
Artist’s Style
Pinchas Litvinovsky (1894–1985) was one of Israel’s pioneering modern artists. Born in Ukraine, he immigrated to Jerusalem in the early 20th century and studied at the Bezalel School of Art before continuing in Paris. His style blends Expressionism and Post-Impressionism with a distinctly local sensibility.
Throughout his career, Litvinovsky painted portraits, landscapes, and cityscapes. His canvases often shift between figuration and abstraction, always emphasizing movement and emotional intensity. In Jerusalem Houses, recognizable architecture meets expressive distortion, reflecting both reality and memory.
Historical Context
Jerusalem has inspired countless artists, yet Litvinovsky’s vision is unique. Rather than monumentalizing religious landmarks, he portrayed daily life — modest courtyards, laundry, trees, and walls. This approach highlights the spirit of the city through its people and homes.
Kings Gallery Jerusalem
Jerusalem Houses by Pinchas Litvinovsky is available at Kings Gallery, Jerusalem. This original oil on canvas, 35 x 50 cm, represents not only an important historical piece but also a timeless addition to any collection.
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. Particularly, we strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes primarily in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. Besides, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
