Bahman Mohasses (Iranian, 1931-2010)

Bahman Mohassess is one of the most acclaimed Iranian Modernists whose life intrigued many art critics and collectors as he remained rather reclusive, mingling with only a few friends and artists. Mohasses is one of the few modern Iranian artists that has investigated and reworked the tradition of still life in Iran, focusing intently on the composition through carefully executing the technique, application of color and background. His influences draw inspiration from multiple art movements as well as artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Paul Cezanne, Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso and 15th and 16th century Roman and Florentine works. The work contains an inner radiance that stems in the deep red and burgundy tones of the pomegranates, which refer to his Iranian heritage where the pomegranate is revered for its blessed properties and acts as a symbol of fertility. The deep foreboding greens of the pears on the table dampen the mood of the painting and sustain its aesthetic balance. These dense colors are contrasted by the geometric flat background in pasty bright blue, brown and beige lines against the branches of the plant. Characterized by a haunted, brooding mood, his composition generates a portentous silence that creates enigmatic visual poetry. His sharp lines and flat shadows emit a mysterious quality to the whole composition, providing us with an interesting perspective of the classic still life.