Lot 230: Ali Omar Ermes , Libyan B. 1945 Multiple Forms acrylic on paper laid down on canvas

acrylic on paper laid down on canvas

measurements note 122 by 152cm.; 48 by 59 7/8 in.

Executed in 2004.
One of the foremost calligraphers of our time, Ali Omar Ermes composes peerless images from the word. Steeped in faith and the concepts of Islam, this work is a homage to the life of the Prophet Mohammad through the Qasidat al-Burda (The Poem of the Cloak) by al-Busairi. The poem was compiled under great duress by the sufi master al-Busairi (A.D. 1212-1296). Having suffered a major stroke and paralysis in the left side of his body, the sheikh composed and recited his poem as a mantra during his illness. In its repetition he found great solace. The poem is full of love for the Prophet who is said to have come to al-Busairi in a dream, cast his cloak over his sleeping form and cured him from his paralysis. The love expressed for Mohammad in Islamic culture is the pure emotion of a believer for his Prophet. It is an abstract thing that can be all consuming, transcending the love of man for his fellows. It is a pure and unadulterated devotion often articulated in devout poetry by pious men.