Who painted Lamartine's palace at Hammana?

Lamartine's palace at Hammana was painted by Moustafa Farroukh in 1939.

Where can I see Lamartine's palace at Hammana?

Lamartine's palace at Hammana is held by Sursock Museum.

Artwork

Lamartine's palace at Hammana

Moustafa Farroukh , 1939

Lamartine's palace at Hammana is an oil painting by Moustafa Farroukh. It dates from 1939 and is held in the collection of the Sursock Museum.

About this work

Overview

Lamartine’s palace at Hammana is a landscape painting executed in oil on canvas by Lebanese artist Moustafa Farroukh around 1939. It depicts a hillside palace set amidst trees under a vibrant sunset sky.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a palace with a distinctive red roof, situated on a hill surrounded by foliage. The scene is bathed in the warm hues of a sunset, contrasting with the deepening blue of the sky. The subject may allude to the historic connection between the location and French writer Alphonse de Lamartine, though the primary emphasis is on capturing the serene Lebanese countryside.

Technique & Style

Farroukh utilized oil paint to achieve a rich, textured quality. The employment of chiaroscuro creates depth and emphasizes the contrast between illuminated and shadowed areas, enhancing the overall visual impact.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1939, the painting is now part of the Sursock Museum’s collection. It represents one of over two thousand works by Farroukh, a prolific artist and author who extensively documented the Lebanese landscape.

Context

This work reflects Farroukh’s dedication to portraying the Lebanese countryside, aligning with his broader artistic mission to capture the country’s natural beauty. The choice of subject may also hint at cultural exchange influences, given the Lamartine reference.

Legacy

As part of Farroukh’s extensive oeuvre, *Lamartine’s palace at Hammana* contributes to the artist’s legacy as a leading figure in 20th-century Lebanese art, known for his voluminous output and literary contributions alongside his painting.