by Sumbal Tanveer
"Mitti Waali Kulfi" is a vivid homage to one of South Asia's most beloved frozen treats — the kulfi. At the centre of this richly painted composition sit traditional clay matkas, the iconic vessels used to set and serve kulfi for generations. Golden kulfi pieces emerge from the pots, their creamy forms catching a warm, almost luminous light against the cool, fragmented blue of the background.
The painting's expressive brushwork and bold contrast of warm amber, burnt orange, and deep earthy browns against a cubist-inspired blue backdrop give this still life an energy that goes beyond the subject . it feels like a hot summer afternoon, the clink of clay, and the first cool bite all at once.
More than a food painting, this is a portrait of memory and culture. The matka kulfi is a symbol of Pakistani and Indian street life — simple, pure, and deeply rooted in tradition. This work brings that beloved experience into fine art, making it a perfect centrepiece for any space that cherishes heritage, hospitality, and the sweeter side of life.