Premazzi, Luigi – Tartar with a mule. Etude Hermitage ~ part 10

The watercolor presents a man standing beside a heavily laden mule. The composition is straightforward; the figure and animal occupy nearly the entire frame, centered against a plain background that suggests a study or preparatory work rather than a finished piece.
Here we see a man dressed in what appears to be traditional attire – a dark, high-collared coat, loose trousers held by a wide belt with a prominent buckle, and tall boots. A distinctive hat sits atop his head, its brim casting shadows on his face. His posture is relaxed; one hand rests casually on his hip while the other gently touches the mule’s muzzle. The mans expression is somewhat neutral, though theres a hint of weariness or stoicism in his gaze.
The animal itself is a light-colored mule, burdened with an elaborate pack consisting of cylindrical containers and various pouches secured by straps. The weight it carries seems substantial, contributing to the overall impression of labor and endurance. The artist has rendered the textures of both man and beast with considerable detail – the rough weave of the clothing, the sheen of the animal’s coat, and the worn leather of the pack all are carefully observed.
The inscription at the bottom, partially legible, hints at a geographical or cultural context: Sic Totere Catholique de Persia. This suggests that the scene depicts an individual from Persia (modern-day Iran), possibly belonging to a Catholic community within that region. The term “Totere” might refer to a specific place or tribe.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of travel, trade, and cultural encounter. The mule, as a beast of burden, symbolizes transportation and commerce across challenging terrain. The man’s attire and the inscription point towards a particular ethnic or religious identity within a broader geographical setting. It is likely that this work served as documentation – an attempt to record details of dress, appearance, and possibly occupation – of individuals encountered during travels in a foreign land. The muted palette and straightforward composition suggest a focus on observation rather than emotional expression, reinforcing the impression of a study intended for later reference or incorporation into a larger project.