Alhazen
Alhazen was a Muslim scientist and polymath who lived from 965-1040 and made significant contributions to the principles optics, as well as to physics, astronomy, mathematics, ophthalmology, philosophy, visual perception, and to the scientific method (Wikipedia). My intention was to correct a stretched portrait made from silicone with a large lens made from a blown glass sphere filled with water. The quasi-scientific process and the futility of the effort echoes not only the historical significance of the figure represented but also questions Western society's perception of the Middle East.