The favorite, Omar Rayyan

Omar Rayyan’s "The Favorite" (2010) is a captivating oil painting that masterfully blends whimsy, dark humor, and the technical precision of Old Master techniques. The scene depicts a seemingly innocent young girl, dressed in period clothing, who is revealed to be perched atop a monstrous, bull-lizard-like creature. The contrast between the girl’s angelic appearance and the grotesque, beastly form beneath her creates a striking and thought-provoking juxtaposition. The creature, with its rolls of sagging skin and docile expression, appears almost resigned to its role as the girl’s mount or companion, while she clings to it with a mix of familiarity and entitlement. The title, "The Favorite," suggests a narrative of indulgence and privilege—implying that the girl, as the favored child, has been so pampered and spoiled that her true nature has transformed into something monstrous, both literally and metaphorically. The painting’s rich textures, meticulous detail, and Renaissance-inspired composition draw the viewer into a world where myth and reality intertwine, inviting reflection on the consequences of unchecked privilege and the duality of human.

Rayyan’s work is renowned for its playful yet sophisticated approach, often featuring mythological beings, woodland creatures, and children in baroque settings. His style, deeply influenced by the Northern Renaissance and 19th-century Romantic and Symbolist painters, lends an air of timelessness to the piece. The painting’s narrative depth and technical virtuosity make it a standout example of contemporary art that pays homage to classical traditions while exploring modern themes of irony and social commentary.