Lot 351: HATSHEPSUT, 2007

HATSHEPSUT, 2007
Oil, oil stick and gold leaf on canvas.  200 x 282.5 cm. (78 3/4 x 111 1/4 in).   Signed and dated 'Abdul Hafiz [in Arabic] 07' lower left.

 Cairo, Zamalek Art Gallery, The Egyptian Woman, 16 March - 16 April, 2008

 Zamalek Art Gallery, Cairo

The subject of this unusually large work is Hatshepsut, an outstanding figure in Ancient Egyptian history. She was the first woman to rule a civilized, powerful and highly advanced state. A formidable character, Hatshepsut propelled the Egypt of old into elevated realms of prosperity and progress. The viewer is aware of an overpowering presence even before recognizing her. This work involved long, one-sided conversations with Hatshepsut in an attempt to capture her spirit, using elements of color and line to achieve this. We can almost see the sun clearly reflected in her eyes that are brimming with warmth. Hatshepsut’s white robes radiate a purity that is both regal and resolute in contrast to the flowing lines and symbolic detail of other elements. These elements work together to convey Hatshepsut’s indomitable will throughout her long reign.
 
Phillips de Pury & Company would like to thank Nima Sagharchi for his contribution to the Middle Eastern and Iranian artists’ essays in this catalogue.