Othello and Desdemona

Nabil Kanso’s 1985 series Othello and Desdemona comprises 60 figurative paintings that explore themes of love, race, jealousy, betrayal, and evil, inspired loosely by Shakespeare’s tragedy Othello. Through intense compositions, the works depict emotionally charged scenes capturing the complex and tumultuous relationship between Othello and Desdemona, alongside the manipulative influence of Iago. The series reflects Neo-expressionism’s visceral style, blending raw imagery and metaphorical elements to evoke the psychological and dramatic tensions that underpin the narrative, creating a powerful visual reflection on human passions and destructive forces.