Orientalist paintings are artworks created by Western artists in the 19th century that depict scenes from the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. These paintings often showcase exotic landscapes, architecture, and people, reflecting a fascination with Eastern cultures. Artists like Eugène Delacroix and Jean-Léon Gérôme aimed to capture the beauty and mystery of these regions, often romanticizing their subjects. The term "Orientalism" also refers to the broader cultural and academic discourse surrounding the East, which influenced literature, fashion, and art. While these paintings can be visually stunning, they have been critiqued for perpetuating stereotypes and misrepresentations of Eastern societies.