Artwork

Patriarch Gregorios Haddad (1859 - 1928)

Patriarch Gregorios Haddad (1859 - 1928), by Moustafa Farroukh, oil, 1939
Patriarch Gregorios Haddad (1859 - 1928), by Moustafa Farroukh, oil, 1939

Patriarch Gregorios Haddad (1859 - 1928) 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

Patriarch Gregorios Haddad is an oil portrait painted by Moustafa Farroukh around 1939. The oval work depicts a dignified, bearded religious figure set against a deep red background, conveying solemnity through its composition and attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is Patriarch Gregorios Haddad, a prominent religious figure, specifically Gregory IV of Antioch. His portrayal in a black robe with red trim, green collar, golden cross-adorned hat, and gold medals emphasizes his ecclesiastical rank and honors.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the portrait aligns with the Orientalist movement, characterized by its detailed, realistic depiction of the subject and his attire, with a focus on capturing the sitter's gravity and direct gaze.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1939 by Lebanese artist Moustafa Farroukh, the painting is part of the Sursock Museum's collection. Farroukh was a prolific artist and writer, contributing significantly to Lebanon's cultural heritage.

Context

As part of the Orientalist movement, the painting reflects a European-inspired aesthetic focusing on Middle Eastern subjects. It also highlights the cultural exchange and artistic trends prevalent during Farroukh's active period in 20th-century Lebanon.

Legacy

Through this portrait, Farroukh not only honored Patriarch Gregorios Haddad but also left a mark on Lebanon's artistic legacy, alongside his extensive body of over 2,000 paintings and literary works, including five published books.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Moustafa Farroukh

Artist

Moustafa Farroukh

Moustafa Farroukh (Arabic: مصطفى فروخ; 1901 – 1957) was one of Lebanon's most prominent painters of the 20th century.

Sursock Museum

Museum

Sursock Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Sursock Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.