Title: Khashab, 2020

 Size: 70 x 100 cm

Medium: Oil on wood.

 

This painting is a reimagined interpretation of an ancient carved panel. I saw the original panel at the Islamic Museum in Cairo. Inspired by its beauty I knew that I had to paint it. The panel may be from the doors of Fatimid Palaces in Cairo. An identical panel is on display at the Met Museum in New York. The carved horse torsos on the panels make them incredibly unique.

 

In my painting, I have transformed the carved heads of the two horses and made them look realistic. I have painted ornaments and gold on to the saddle and bridle, reminiscing the opulence of the Fatimid era. I have also added foliage to bring the carved vegetal patterns to life.