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Salons
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The Ramallah salons are a miniature representation of the complex web of social customs and
traditions, of prevailing taste, of imported taste, a clear reflection of social standing, education
and religious affiliation. The 1950’s and 1960’s salons of Ramallah evoke a particular flavor.
In traditionally built homes, the salon is located in the large central hallway, with doors on
each side leading to the other rooms of the house. There is an overall eclectic liveliness in the
style of the furniture and the objects in the room. There is often a carpet of decorative tiles on
the floor. The color is further enhanced by the light coming from the traditional red, blue and
green stained glass window panes. The furniture in the salon is made of divans and armchairs
usually styled in puffed upholstered velvety covers. A massive central chandelier hangs from
the ceiling and the walls are filled with photographs and other framed images. These hang
high and slightly tilted in ornate gilded frames: photos of family elders and forefathers, formal
wedding pictures, school certificates, classical oil landscapes - often of scenes inspired by
idyllic lakes and snowy topped mountains emulating. Alpine landscapes and embroidered
cross-stitched images of saints and holy figures, such as St. George killing the dragon. The
charm and personality of the room is further defined by the crocheted doilies, clusters of
statuettes, crystal ashtrays and vases and assorted cigarette boxes carefully arranged on a
tray (it was a custom of hospitality to offer cigarettes to the guests). Some of the objects have
probably been gathered as memorabilia, having been or brought back, or sent as gifts by
family members who had immigrated to the States.
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Location : Ramallah
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Date of work : 2010
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