Cup Bearer to a Persian King (oil pastel) by Polly Castor

I painted this 11″ x 14″ work in oil pastel. This approach to oil pastel is original, and is similar to the scraffito technique I’ve been using lately in pottery. Multiple layers of pastel are applied, with some then carefully scrapped away. I really enjoy both this process and the result, and will be exploring it more in the future.

I did this painting this week while listening to an amplified version of the Old Testament story of Nehemiah rebuilding the wall in Jerusalem. Before the story moves to Jerusalem, much of it takes place in the Persian court where Nehemiah was a cup-bearer to the King. The intriguing descriptions of the world of Persian courtiers influenced the content of this work.

Enjoy!