Donkey Bridge (part of Tapestry in six paintings) 

Niko Pirosmani created this scene on oilcloth, a material more often found as a humble table covering than a surface for fine art. Looking closely, you can see the texture of the cloth support showing through the paint, and you can also see how the artist has used bold, simple strokes to depict a busy scene of commerce and leisure. On either side of the river are groups of people enjoying a feast, while others cross the bridge, or row boats. The presence of both servers and abundant food point to the emerging mercantile class in Tbilisi at the turn of the century. Pirosmani painted directly onto the black oilcloth, using its darkness to create a distinctive palette, with colors that have a subdued, earthy quality. He was self-taught, and made his living painting signs for shops and taverns, which explains his fluid handling of the material. Pirosmani’s embrace of such a utilitarian support challenges traditional notions about what counts as art, reminding us that creativity can be found in the most unexpected places.