1920s Qajar Period Oil on Canvas

Details

Description

Interesting painting with two figures, which appears to be making a statement on the nature of love and the power … Read more Interesting painting with two figures, which appears to be making a statement on the nature of love and the power of women.

The man's gaze belies infatuation tinged with doubt as to whether his affection may be reciprocated; whereas the female figure seems more involved in her own self. Despite her pretense of indifference she has discarded one of her shoes, which in the tradition of 17th century Dutch genre painting symbolized sexuality, and it may be that it could represent an invitation to intimacy.

Both of their bejeweled headdresses indicate that these characters belong to the ruling class, and the depiction is unlikely to have adorned a public space. In all likelihood, this picture was commissioned by the sitters.

Courtship or Vanity? This painting suggests interesting comments on these dynamics.

The price is commensurate with the age, quality and rarity of this painting. A similar painting with only one figure sold recently for $ 8,000 See less