King Midas Omar Rayyan

The composition presents a figure dominated by distress, positioned against a backdrop of intense color and geometric abstraction. The central figure, presumably a man of considerable age judging from his beard and weathered features, is depicted in profile, gazing upwards with an expression of profound anguish. He holds a small, circular object – likely a cup or bowl – in his hands, its surface reflecting light in a way that suggests it might be metallic. This detail immediately introduces the theme of transformation and potential loss.
Above him, another figure leans forward, seemingly overwhelmed by sorrow. His hair is long and flowing, intertwined with what appears to be laurel foliage, hinting at a position of authority or perhaps a tragic fall from grace. The man’s face conveys an intense emotional burden; his mouth is slightly open as if in a silent cry, and his eyes are filled with despair. He seems to embody the consequences of a wish gone awry.
The background contributes significantly to the overall mood. A vibrant red dominates, punctuated by rectangular forms that appear both architectural and abstract. These shapes create a sense of confinement or entrapment, reinforcing the feeling of inescapable fate. The use of gold accents – seen in the foliage, within the geometric patterns, and seemingly emanating from the upper figure – suggests wealth, but also hints at corruption and the destructive nature of unchecked desire.
The artist’s choice to depict these figures against such a stylized background moves beyond straightforward narrative representation. It suggests that this is not merely a depiction of an event, but rather an exploration of universal themes: the perils of greed, the burden of power, and the devastating consequences of hubris. The flattened perspective and lack of traditional depth contribute to a sense of timelessness, elevating the scene from a specific historical moment to a symbolic representation of human folly. The color palette – the stark contrast between the red background and the cool tones of the figures’ clothing – further amplifies the emotional intensity of the scene, creating a visually arresting and psychologically complex work.