77 - Reza Derakshani (Iranian, b. 1952). Oil on canvas, Moth and Flame, 1996. Reza Derakhshani is an internationally recognized contemporary Iranian artist known for merging traditional Persian motifs with modern abstract expressionism. The title, Moth and Flame (Parvaneh and Shama), references a central metaphor in Persian Sufi poetry. Appears unsigned. Sight: 24 5/8 x 29 1/2 in. Frame: 26 1/4 x 31 1/4 in.

Reza Derakshani (Iranian, b. 1952). Oil on canvas, Moth and Flame, 1996. Reza Derakhshani is an internationally recognized contemporary Iranian artist known for merging traditional Persian motifs with modern abstract expressionism. The title, Moth and Flame (Parvaneh and Shama), references a central metaphor in Persian Sufi poetry. Appears unsigned. Sight: 24 5/8 x 29 1/2 in. Frame: 26 1/4 x 31 1/4 in. Provenance: Gift of the artist to the present consignor, Cameron Hatami, c. 1996. Mr. Hatami and Reza Derakhshani became acquainted in New York during the 1980s and 90s, when both were active as musicians and performed and recorded together. Mr. Hatami provided Derakhshani with workspace, and the artist left the painting with him as a gesture of friendship. Their musical collaboration is further documented by a recording titled "Chargah-Shur, " identified by Mr. Hatami as a joint musical project. Their musical collaboration during this period is further documented in a January 19, 1990 New York Times article concerning Persian folk music. CONDITION: The painting displays several areas of surface paint loss and abrasions along the top edge near the frame. There are further areas of surface loss along the bottom left edge. Small white spots of paint loss or accretions are visible in the dark background behind the flower and near the top center edge. The dark-stained wood frame shows minor surface wear and scuffing throughout. NOTICE TO BIDDERS: The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition. Photos are considered part of the condition report. Complete condition information is available by request, please request no later than 24 hours prior to the auction. All lots are offered and sold "as is", and Willow Auctions will not provide refunds based on condition. Timepiece movements, lighting and electrics have not been tested, and art has not been examined out of the frame unless otherwise stated.