Quan’ta II 

Alfred Conteh's "Quan'ta II" presents a profile portrait set against an abstract pink and green backdrop, rich with symbolism. The subject’s dreadlocks, styled high, recall ancient Egyptian depictions of elevated status and spiritual connection. Tattoos adorn his torso. Most notable is the inscription "KINGS," itself crowned with a regal emblem. Here, Conteh invokes the archetype of the sovereign. We can see how the concept of kingship appears across cultures, from ancient Egyptian pharaohs to medieval European monarchs, all symbolizing power, authority, and divine right. This motif transcends time, embodying our collective aspirations for control and legacy. The purple shading above the subject's brow hints at a deeper narrative. Might this be a symbolic bruise or a mark of vision? These powerful motifs engage us on a subconscious level, stirring deep-seated emotions. The "KINGS" symbol, like many others, undergoes constant reinterpretation, adapting to contemporary ideals of power and identity, yet retaining echoes of its ancient origins.