Cypriote orange and flower girls

This is an interesting watercolour of a foreigner’s perception of Cypriot women in terms of its gender implications. A female figure personifies a juxtaposition of starkly contrasting elements. The upper part is dressed in oriental attire and is complimented by such signifiers of folk life as the wicker tray. Yet, the lower part appears very provocative and is reminiscent of modern articulations of female sexuality. However, the anatomical features of the girl are informed by the aesthetic criteria of the nineteenth century in which the painting was created. These two contradicting sides to the woman indicate the desire of the artist to represent the exotic and picturesque within the framework of the lure of the Orient. Furthermore, his inspiration might have been influenced by the legend of Aphrodite, whose birthplace is Cyprus, and her Cypriot descendants. Travellers always expected to find beautiful lascivious women on the island although mostly greatly disappointed. The artist chose to satisfy his imagination and capture the interest of his viewers. In line with the sensual overtones of the painting, a basket full of oranges and flowers alludes to an island which appeals to the senses, to sweet tastes and sweet smells.