The basket maker

Description of the artwork

During his various stays in Tangier, Jean Discart illustrated the skills of the craftsmen he could observe in the city's alleyways, close to the souk. Ceramists, hairdressers, weavers, shoemakers and basket-makers are depicted with a delicacy and realism that are enhanced by his flawless technique.
In our painting, using a subtle cameo of light colors, the painter plunges us into the concentration of this basket-maker, busy braiding dried palm leaves. The man, whose beard and bleached hair indicate that he has been weaving for many years, is concentrating on his work. His baskets, finished with delicate finishing touches, mingle strands of red and green. He has taken off his slippers to work more comfortably, sitting on a carpet that his nimble fingers have woven.
As is often the case, Discart dwells on the craftsmanship to which he is sensitive, perhaps considering himself first and foremost a craftsman. He takes particular care to paint his subject's surroundings, the beautiful wooden door and whitewashed walls.

Origin

Arthur Tooth & Sons, Paris
Private collection