The Irish Question

<p>A seemingly uncomplicated representation of two potatoes suspended by a string against a wood panel, <em>The Irish Question</em> is an unusual and striking trompe l’oeil painting that raises numerous questions. The title may refer to the troubled status of the Irish in the late 19th century; the hanging potatoes inflect this allusion with either ominous overtones or a dark sense of humor. Illusionistic paintings such as <em>The Irish Question</em> offer an enjoyable form of visual deception, and the pseudonymous signature “S.S. David” suggests that De Scott Evans relished the opportunity to puzzle his viewers on many levels.</p>