Afghans 

Alexandre Jacovleff painted these Afghans with oils, capturing a moment of reflection and camaraderie. The turbans, a prominent feature, go beyond mere headwear; they are emblems of identity, deeply interwoven with cultural and religious significance. Consider the figure in the background, standing with a rifle. This echoes, perhaps unconsciously, the classical contrapposto stance—a warrior’s pose that has been passed down through millennia. From ancient Greek sculptures to Renaissance paintings, this stance embodies strength and readiness. Yet, here, it also speaks of conflict and vigilance. The hands of the seated men, clasped and adorned with bracelets, tell their own story. Hands, throughout art history, have been used to express a range of emotions, from peace to anxiety. In Jacovleff's image, they carry a weight of history. The symbols and gestures present remind us that human experiences are continuously reshaped. Through memory, these symbols are passed on, constantly evolving, and engaging us on a subconscious level.