Lot 290: FARAH OSSULI (IRAN, B. 1953)

Hafiz Collection, II
signed and dated in Farsi (lower right)
gouache on cardboard
30 x 30in. (76 x 76cm.)
Painted in 2002-2005

Despite her strict compliance with the characteristics of traditional miniature painting, Farah Ossuli avoids reproducing the exact replicas of the old miniatures. The modern ambiance of her miniatures leaves out the obsolete elements that have no place in the present era. Moreover, subjects such as mythology and life itself, which are beyond time and space, complement the elaborately-painted traditional miniatures.
Ossuli's miniatures are partially inspired by Persian poetry, and more particularly the lyrics its great exponent Hafez. The philosophical aspects observed in her paintings render a valuable dimension and distinguish her style from mere objective and superficial modernization. She is attracted to the principle of Persian visual tradition, without denying the values of the Western art.