The Bull & Ruby, 2023
Chinese cinnabar, crushed ruby gemstone, 23.5 carat gold, watercolour on Indian Hemp paper from Jaipur.
22.44 x 9.45ins (57 x 24cm) (artwork size)
26.38 x 13.78ins (67 x 35cm) (framed size)
26.38 x 13.78ins (67 x 35cm) (framed size)
Medieval Middle Eastern manuscripts on cosmography feature a cosmic bull named Kuyūthā or Kujata (pronounced Que-fa in Arabic: كيوثاء). This bull's depiction is a metaphor for a man's reliance on...
Medieval Middle Eastern manuscripts on cosmography feature a cosmic bull named Kuyūthā or Kujata (pronounced Que-fa in Arabic: كيوثاء). This bull's depiction is a metaphor for a man's reliance on land and agriculture. In these historic manuscripts, the bull carries an emerald or ruby between its horns, illustrating how our way of life is supported by working animals and the riches of the earth.
In my vertical painting, I used the mineral stone cinnabar to create a rich vermillion background. Beneath the paint, a geometric skeleton dictates the placement and size of the bull, while ensuring harmony. Between the creature's horns, I used crushed rubies as an ode to the original manuscripts. The bull is completed with details in handmade gold paint.
In my vertical painting, I used the mineral stone cinnabar to create a rich vermillion background. Beneath the paint, a geometric skeleton dictates the placement and size of the bull, while ensuring harmony. Between the creature's horns, I used crushed rubies as an ode to the original manuscripts. The bull is completed with details in handmade gold paint.