Parviz Tanavoli

Edition 8/80

Acquired directly from the artist in 1976

Charles Pocock and Samar Farugi, Parviz Tanavoli: Monograph, 2009, Dubai, p.33, illustrated in colour (another example illustrated)

Condition: This work is in very good condition. Colour: The catalogue illustration is very accurate; however, the background tends towards a softer crème tone in the original work.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 1974, the Ben and Abby Grey Foundation helped sponsor a travelling show of Tanavoli's Lion and Rugs from Fars series. Inspired by traditional Persian tribal rugs and motifs, the artist also created rugs where the prints Oh! Nightingale were produced as a design for those same rugs. The composition is drawn from Farhad - the poetic sculpture who is Tanavoli's mythical muse - rendered in a futuristic, robotic style. His face resembles a door grid from which two locks hang (central to the artist's body of work). In his hands, Farhad holds a nightingale bird, who sings Persian poetry. Reinterpreting classical Persian myths, poetry with folkloric motifs, Tanavoli produces a work that bridges Pop Art with traditional Persian motifs.