End of examinations 1998 Iman Maleki

The painting presents a young boy perched on what appears to be a rooftop ledge, overlooking a sprawling urban landscape. He is dressed in simple clothing – a long-sleeved shirt, dark trousers, and a cap that obscures his hairline. A pencil is held loosely between his fingers, and he seems to be consuming a piece of bread or pastry with evident relish. Beside him rests an open book or notebook, displaying what appear to be diagrams or handwritten notes.
The composition directs the viewer’s attention first to the boy himself, positioned centrally within the frame. His gaze is directed towards the distant cityscape, suggesting a contemplative state, perhaps a moment of respite after intense mental exertion. The background reveals a densely populated area, rendered with a muted palette that emphasizes its scale and distance. A cloudy sky occupies the upper portion of the canvas, contributing to an atmosphere of quiet introspection.
The artist’s use of light is noteworthy; it illuminates the boys face and hands, highlighting his youthfulness and vulnerability. The shadows cast across the ledge and on his clothing add depth and a sense of realism. The texture of the stone or concrete beneath him is also rendered with considerable detail, grounding the figure within a tangible environment.
Subtleties in the scene suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple depiction of leisure. The presence of the notebook implies academic pursuits, possibly studies recently concluded. His posture and expression convey a sense of release and perhaps even a touch of melancholy – a feeling associated with endings or transitions. The vastness of the city behind him could symbolize opportunity, future prospects, or the weight of expectation that lies ahead.
The painting evokes themes of childhood, education, freedom, and the passage of time. It is not merely a portrait but an exploration of a moment suspended between past effort and future possibilities, capturing a universal sentiment of youthful contemplation.