Sisters, Beirut, 2007

Artist Rania Matar (Lebanese, active United States, born 1964)

Date2007

Mediumarchival inkjet print

Dimensions40.6 x 61 cm (16 x 24 in.)

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineGift from the artist and Gallery Kayafas in honor of Ed Osowski

Terms

Object number2010.276

Label TextA hijab is a traditional Muslim head covering intended to preserve a woman’s modesty. In Lebanon, a country of numerous religions, women are not mandated to wear the hijab, but many do by choice. Matar’s series The Veil: Modesty, Fashion, Devotion or Statement, explores the multiplicity of meanings associated with the garment both here and abroad. In Sisters, bold patterns and ornamentation surround and adorn two Lebanese girls. These siblings are typical adolescent consumers of fun, modern styles. The leopard print of the couch joins with patterns of hearts and flowers on their clothing. Their veils are also embellished with materials like sequins, making the hijabs garments of both fashion and devotion. Matar reconnected with the sisters again in 2020. One no longer wears the hijab.ProvenanceThe artist; Gallery Kayafas, Boston, MA

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