This exquisite oil painting by Iranian artist Tahmoures Ashnagar is a masterfully rendered still life that blends elements of tradition, texture, and cultural symbolism.
Description and Composition:
At the heart of the painting lies a richly decorated tablecloth featuring traditional Persian tribal motifs, including stylized animals — likely gazelles or deer — and geometric patterns. These motifs anchor the work in Iran’s folkloric and nomadic heritage.
On the table, we see a beautiful ceramic vase in a distinctive turquoise-green glaze, a hallmark of Persian pottery, evoking both antiquity and elegance.
A clay pot filled with yellow flowers (possibly chrysanthemums) radiates warmth and natural life, softening the structured elements of the composition.
To the right, a woven basket holds red fruits (perhaps pomegranates or apples), adding a vibrant touch and a symbolic reference to abundance and Persian hospitality.
Light dances gently across the surface, emphasizing the folds of the fabric, the sheen of the ceramic, and the lush texture of the flowers. The brushwork is both refined and expressive, capturing the tactile essence of each material.
Stylistic and Cultural Notes:
Ashnagar’s work here reflects a deep reverence for Iranian material culture — from weaving and pottery to nature and domestic rituals.
It combines realism with poetic atmosphere, inviting viewers to not only observe but feel the quiet dignity of a traditional setting.
The painting becomes more than a still life — it’s a cultural portrait, a visual ode to everyday beauty shaped by centuries of Iranian artistic heritage.- ARTYMAG
