In the late 18th century the interest in Europe for the still unknown Ottoman lands and society was growing. In this context, after 1760s, few European painters visited the Levant producing watercolors (aquarelles) & depicting people of the Ottoman Empire. The demand was high and these aquarelles are considered today very rare. The following original painted aquarelles were painted by a skilled French painter who has visited the Levant around 1770s-1780s (as the period watermarked papers suggest). The French artist seems to have direct access to the Ottoman Court (as the Ottoman officials detailed depiction confirms), suggesting that the painter was probably a member of or following a diplomatic mission. Within this frame the painter could probably be Hilair, who followed Choiseul Gouffier in the Levant in 1776. The current collection of four (4) watercolors come from Sarkis Boghossians (leading French Librarian of the 20th century) private collection. People of the Levant: 1.“Papas, ou pretre Grec” (Greek Priest), original watercolor painting, 28x20cm, on watermarked paper. Constantinople c.1770-1780. Fine condition, brilliant period colors. 2. “Astchi, ou Cuisinier Turc portant le diner a son Maitre”, original watercolor painting, 28x20cm, on watermarked paper. Constantinople c.1770-1780. Fine condition, brilliant period colors. Ottoman Court Officials: 3. “Kasnadar Agha, ou second chef des Eunuques noirs, Tresorier du Grand Seigneur dans le Harem” (The Treasurer of the Ottoman Palace Harem). Original watercolor painting, 28x20cm, on watermarked paper. Constantinople c.1770-1780. Small tear on left edge, not affecting painting. Fine condition, brilliant period colors. 4. “Buiuk - Teskeredgi. Premier Lecteur de requiter devant le Grand Vezir (First officer of the Grand Vizier). Original watercolor painting, 28x20cm, on watermarked paper. Constantinople c.1770-1780. Resored tear in the upper part. Very good condition, brilliant period colors.