Reclining Odalisque 2008

Lalla Essaydi's 2008 photographic triptych "Reclining Odalisque" is a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional "odalisque" subject. The work depicts a woman, her body and surroundings covered in intricate Arabic script, challenging the Western gaze and stereotypical representations of Arab women. The script, a dense tapestry of letters, becomes a visual barrier, suggesting both a veil and a form of liberation through literacy. The fragmented composition further highlights the interplay between concealment and revelation, drawing viewers into a dialogue about cultural identity and representation.