“The Unwelcome Companion (A Street Scene in Cairo)” is an exquisite oil on canvas painting by John William Waterhouse, created around 1872. This work, measuring 49.5 by 59.1 centimeters, belongs to the Romanticism art movement and falls under the genre painting category. It is housed in the Towneley Hall Art Gallery and Museum in Burnley, UK.
The artwork depicts a serene yet reflective scene of a young woman positioned against an architectural backdrop in Cairo. She is adorned in vibrant, culturally detailed attire that includes a red jacket, a green sash, and an orange skirt. Her expression is one of contemplative melancholy, and her posture is relaxed as she leans against a wall. The background showcases intricate decorative elements and lush greenery, providing a rich contrast to her vivid clothing. The distant architectural features suggest the bustling life of Cairo, subtly alluding to the larger context of her surroundings.