Shushan Bibin 1973

Mariam Aslamazian painted Shushan Bibin, sometime in the mid-twentieth century, we think, using oils. The planes of colour are laid down in strong, distinct brushstrokes, and there's a real sense of process. You feel you could step into the studio space as the painting emerges. I love the texture in this piece. The colours, though bold, are earthy and muted, giving the painting a grounded feel. It's the little details that catch my eye. Look at how the black of the headscarf is broken up by a strip of muted purple. It's these moments of colour harmony that bring the piece to life. The subtle changes in tone across her face, rendered in soft pinks and browns, convey so much about the woman’s character and inner life. The colours and bold simplification remind me of Alexej von Jawlensky. Ultimately, this is a piece that embraces ambiguity, inviting us to bring our own stories and interpretations to the canvas.