Old Age #1

sketchfab

Old Age is a poignant portrait of Dr. Iskandar and his wife Saleha Amir as lifelong companions. Married in 1968, their lives intersect in many ways - both were Colombo Plan Scholars trained in craft work and educators throughout their careers. Divergences in their temperaments and habits create lively interactions between them, enhancing their compatibility. A closer look reveals that the figurines are not identical reflections of each other but are characterized by distinct quirks and eccentricities. Their fluid, flexible bodies blend seamlessly with their Thonet rocking chairs (a chair known for its curved armrests and rockers). The work captures the affectionate comfort as well as the ingrained habits and postures of a couple in the autumnal stage of their lives. A crackling slip produces surface cracks and craquelure that suggest aging and weathering. Dr. Iskandar openly celebrates wabi sabi aesthetics, which appreciates beauty in things that are worn out, imperfect, or bear the scars of time.