Untitled from the 'Qajar' series

Inspired by the qualities and theatrics of nineteenth-century studio portraiture during Iran’s Qajar dynasty, the prominent photographer Shadi Ghadirian, produced the ‘Qajar’ series in 1998. Through her unique lens, she captures the identity of her sitters with a multilayered approach, showcasing the sociocultural conditions and historical influences that define Iranian women. Most notably, Ghadirian highlights feminine beauty standards in the featured era, such as unibrows, and projects the sitters’ confidence while sitting comfortably on a chair and the floor.

Instead of professional models, Ghadirian invited family members and friends to pose for the series in vintage costumes. Here, the guitar serves as the main prop, while in other examples, she utilises objects such as banned reading material, a vacuum cleaner and a Pepsi can. These props are a symbolic and humorous way of exploring gender roles, engagement with global culture and self-expression. While the sitters proudly embrace their culture, the artist also highlights their individuality and aspirations, reflecting Iran's complex relationship between tradition and modernity in contemporary times.