White tavern 

Niko Pirosmani created 'White Tavern', a painting measuring 49 by 80 cm, with oil on oilcloth. Painted by a self-taught artist, this work provides a fascinating insight into the social and cultural dynamics of early 20th century Georgia. Pirosmani’s style, marked by its directness and lack of academic training, offers a unique perspective on the institutions of art. The ‘tavern’ or ‘dukhan’ in the painting's title, would have been a central gathering place for social exchange. The figures depicted—the driver, the passengers, and the man carrying a frame— hint at the dynamics of class and commerce in Georgian society. Pirosmani seems to be inviting us to reflect on the role of art and artists within the context of everyday life. To fully appreciate Pirosmani's work, we must delve into the social history of Georgia, examining its economic structures, class relations, and the cultural values of the time.