Who painted A Bedouin's Portrait?

A Bedouin's Portrait was painted by Moustafa Farroukh in 1939.

Where can I see A Bedouin's Portrait?

A Bedouin's Portrait is held by Sursock Museum.

Artwork

A Bedouin's Portrait

Moustafa Farroukh , 1939

A Bedouin's Portrait is a watercolor painting by Moustafa Farroukh. It dates from 1939 and is held in the collection of the Sursock Museum. Created circa 1939, this watercolor portrait presents a solitary figure dressed in traditional Bedouin clothing.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1939, this watercolor portrait presents a solitary figure dressed in traditional Bedouin clothing. Rendered from the chest upward, the subject looks directly at the viewer with a solemn expression, set against a muted, light‑toned background that emphasizes the figure’s features.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is identifiable by his beard, keffiyeh headscarf and the distinctive black cord, the aqal, that secures the fabric—a customary ensemble among Bedouin communities. The direct gaze and restrained demeanor suggest a dignified representation of Bedouin identity within a modern artistic framework.

Technique & Style

Employing watercolor, the artist achieves a delicate translucency, allowing subtle tonal variations to model the facial features and fabric folds. The medium’s fluidity contributes to a soft atmospheric quality, while the limited palette and restrained brushwork focus attention on the subject’s expression and attire.

History & Provenance

The work belongs to the collection of the Sursock Museum in Beirut, reflecting the institution’s commitment to preserving Lebanese modern art. It was produced by Moustafa Farroukh, a prolific Lebanese painter whose career spanned several decades and included more than two thousand works and several published writings.