Lot 166: - Farideh Lashaie , Iranian B. 1944 Mossadegh oil on canvas, in three parts

signed and dated 87 (A.P./A.D. 2008) oil on canvas, in three parts

measurements note each: 190 by 89cm.; 74 1/2 by 35in. overall: 190 by 270.8cm.; 74 1/2 by 106 1/2 in.

Farideh Lashaie's fascination with colour fields, and her signature fluid strokes allow an abstract expressionist rendering of the iconic landscapes for which she is renowned. This exploration of figurative and politically sensitive subject-matter, is a rare departure for the artist. Dr.Mohammad Mossadegh (1882-1967), from an aristocratic Iranian family, studied law in Europe and entered political life from an early age. An ardent patriot, he implemented the nationalization of Iran's oil resources, upon becoming Prime Minister in 1951. He was overthrown by a western-engineered coup d'etat in 1953 and was confined for the rest of his days to prison and internal exile. In this portrayal Dr. Mossadegh's face remains hidden, this emphasizes Lashaie's artistic agenda, affirming that she is neither concerned with the political specifications of Mossadegh's era nor concerned with making value judgements therein. Rather her art is centred around the relationship of history and lived experience. The deliberate vanishing of this powerful figure, once larger than life, now reduced to a shadow on the canvas - just an imprint on the passage of time. It is the very nature of time, and the ephemeral quality of life that concerns Lashaie. Please note that the current catalogue entry is an artistic interpretation of this piece and not necessarily based on historical accuracy.