Artwork
A Kurdish Porter
A Kurdish Porter is an oil painting by the Orientalist artist Moustafa Farroukh. It dates from 1939 and is held in the collection of the Sursock Museum.
About this work
Overview
A Kurdish Porter is an oil painting created by Moustafa Farroukh, a prominent Lebanese artist, circa 1939. The work is a portrait of a man, characterized by a turban and moustache, and is housed in the Sursock Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting focuses on a contemplative Kurdish porter, his downward gaze and introspective demeanor evoking a sense of quiet reflection. His attire, including a white shirt, dark jacket, and turban, is meticulously depicted.
Technique & Style
Farroukh employs a range of colors to achieve depth and texture. A warm, beige background contrasts with the cool tones of the subject's clothing, drawing attention to the face. The composition aligns with Orientalist themes prevalent at the time.
History & Provenance
Created around 1939, A Kurdish Porter is part of the Sursock Museum's collection, reflecting the institution's interest in showcasing regional modernist artists like Farroukh.
Context
The painting reflects the Orientalist movement's influence on Middle Eastern artists of the era, who often depicted local subjects through a lens that balanced cultural representation with European artistic traditions.
Artist & collection
Artist
Moustafa Farroukh (Arabic: مصطفى فروخ; 1901 – 1957) was one of Lebanon's most prominent painters of the 20th century.
