Lot 568: fm - Abdelaziz Gorgi , Tunisian B. 1928 Untitled gouache on paper

signed gouache on paper

measurements note 50 by 65cm.; 19 2/3 by 25 1/2 in.

Ali Ballagha Collection, Tunisia
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner

Executed circa 1980.
Abdelazzis Gorgi's distinctive style makes use of symbolic, satirical and comic elements, providing a perceptive commentary on the role of women, their sexuality and their treatment within the context of middle eastern society. At first glance Gorgi's figures appear amusing, the characters are dynamic and cheerful and his palette is bright, almost childish. Yet Gorgi's caricatures are a vessel for a sober social commentary. This is facilitated by the use of key themes that recur throughout his work. This particular piece includes a number of the tools Gorgi utilises in his unique visual vocabulary: the man in the checheya, the flute player, the veiled woman framed by a pointed arch and the uncovered woman with stylised breasts. All of these are symbolic of the sexual contradiction and tension Gorgi believes to be prevalent in middle eastern society. In Gorgi's works, the male figures tend to be voyeurs, giving a sordid feel to his market scenes. The purpose of the checheya hat is two-fold, it lends the scene a distinct Tunisian flavour, whilst it is also widely perceived as a symbol of relaxation and hedonism, coupled with the fan and the leisurely stroll of the three male figures, it indicates the power and privilege of men in this society. The woman to the left of the three central figures strikes a vulgar pose, a common characteristic of his female depictions highlighting the women as creatures of beauty, but also as objects of fantasy. The use of a flute player further supplements this, as the women dance to the command of a patriarchal tune. Even the veiled woman is transformed into an object, by framing her in a pointed arch, the artist represents her as a doll on display. Ultimately, Gorgi is a painter whose works break sexual and religious taboos in order to highlight the importance and relevance of sexuality in human relationships. Whilst some might alienate women from their femininity in an attempt to prevent the expression of sexuality, Gorgi stresses how fundamental this is to human nature.