Binnentuin van het huis Hussein Khan in Tabriz 1843 - 1854

Curator: This delicate watercolor is entitled "Binnentuin van het huis Hussein Khan in Tabriz," or "Interior Garden of the House of Hussein Khan in Tabriz," created by Eugène Flandin sometime between 1843 and 1854. It currently resides here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: It evokes a distinct sense of quietude. The light, almost bleached palette, paired with the architectural rendering, suggests a space both grand and incredibly still, almost ghostly. Curator: Note the paper itself. Its age contributes to that ethereal feeling. The choice to work with watercolor on, likely, homemade paper demonstrates a deep understanding of the materials at hand. It lends itself to that soft, almost faded impression. The whole work appears to be about representing the texture and feel of light in this space. Editor: The careful depiction of the arched gateway, repeated throughout the structure, I think that carries enormous symbolic weight. Arches represent transition, passage to another realm, almost an implied sense of heaven and transcendence through the architectural lines of domes and other heavenly vault structures. Curator: Interesting observation! Consider, too, how the materiality itself suggests a particular socio-economic context. The accessibility of paper, of watercolor, implies a certain level of artistic labor readily available. Editor: I see what you mean! I was concentrating on how the light is so masterfully diffused and dispersed here that it evokes themes of inner peace. Light has represented knowledge and enlightenment for centuries; think of the recurring visual themes that evoke a calming space, but from a symbolic view. Curator: Precisely! It is this interesting interplay between artistic choice and historical and cultural contexts that creates such an intricate piece. Editor: Indeed, one could explore forever. Curator: Absolutely. This work showcases a world of meaning just in this seemingly simple interior depiction.