Titi and Naranghe, Daughters of Chief Eki Bondo 1926

Curator: This oil on canvas from 1926 is entitled “Titi and Naranghe, Daughters of Chief Eki Bondo,” and was painted by Alexandre Jacovleff. It offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these young women. Editor: It's surprisingly tender, isn't it? There's such a strong sense of connection, yet the landscape is almost... clinical, despite the warm colors. A fascinating juxtaposition. Curator: Exactly! Jacovleff masterfully employs a high degree of realism in the portraiture, contrasted with a nearly decorative use of pattern in the background textiles, typical for its context and yet it gives the overall image this feeling of staged naturalism, doesn’t it? Editor: The geometric designs are incredibly striking. They almost compete with the figures for attention, creating a visual tension. Then, beyond, in the distant, more casually-rendered scenery – little hints of activity and habitation in an untouched background – the village and lone figure introduce a lovely subtle sense of everyday life and local habit. Curator: Jacovleff traveled extensively and was profoundly impacted by the cultures he encountered. You can feel the respect for the culture of his subjects here, it transcends objectification. Look at the positioning and their mutual embrace, and look also to their relaxed state; their subtle adornments. It offers a delicate blend of observation and intimacy, right? Editor: Yes, the subtle gold embellishments against their skin! Yet he refrains from sentimentalising. His ability to depict the human form realistically yet simply creates something incredibly pure. The slight angle of her head and soft, almost pleading glances. Beautiful Curator: Their shared gaze pulls the viewer in. In a way, the piece seems to explore how personal relationships sit inside culture and also transcends culture Editor: The play of gazes indeed evokes volumes! What looks initially quite straightforward opens to new considerations about representation and how identities emerge within our gaze and reciprocally shape one another. So powerful Curator: Agreed. There is just something remarkably timeless, universal and intimate within this portrait. Editor: Absolutely—I came looking at structure and surfaces, and have come away thinking about souls and relationships. A perfect way to travel.