Al-Tanazor (Symmetry)

Symmetry constituted a pervasive theme throughout Jassim al-Zaini's career. In Al-Tanazor he examined the two traditional crafts of Sadu embroidery and the ornamentation of old boxes and doors. He distributed shapes symmetrically to examine these forms and present them again without any direct reference to their origins to highlight the formal structures of Qatari visual heritage.

In his artistic practice, al-Zaini frequently employed a variety of materials, including copper, which he utilised in this particular piece to evoke traditional crafts associated with box making. It is clear that the artist's formative experiences and the influence of his father, who was a craftsman, are reflected in this artwork. At a young age, al-Zaini would frequently accompany his father in the construction of wooden boat models, spending hours in the process.