Queen of Diamods 2019

Michael Cheval painted this ‘Queen of Diamonds’ with oils, though when is anyone’s guess. The painting makes me think about the Renaissance, but with a surreal twist. I love how the rich, detailed patterns of the queen’s costume contrast with the textured, almost chaotic background. You can see how Cheval applied the paint in these sharp, deliberate strokes which creates a sense of movement and energy around the queen. Look closely at her hands. Notice how they are delicately holding a playing card, almost like she’s revealing a secret. The translucence in her skin contrasts with the heavy impasto strokes in the background. The bright, bold red and white diamonds make her look powerful, but her gaze is introspective. Cheval’s work reminds me of Magritte, someone else who sought to reveal the hidden poetry in everyday objects. I guess what I'm saying is, don’t let this painting play you; there's so much more going on beneath the surface.