Artwork
Portrait of Thurayya Farroukh
Portrait of Thurayya Farroukh 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
Created circa 1939 by Lebanese painter Moustafa Farroukh, this oil on canvas belongs to the portrait tradition. It presents a veiled woman seated against a warm, earthy backdrop, her gaze fixed forward and her expression restrained, conveying a sense of quiet introspection.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter, identified as Thurayya Farroukh, is shown with dark hair partially concealed by a headscarf that falls over her shoulders. The contrast between the dark garment and the lighter tones of her face emphasizes her presence, while the neutral demeanor suggests a contemplative inner life rather than overt narrative.
Technique & Style
Farroukh employs a restrained palette, using rich, deep hues for the veil and attire against a softer, muted background. The oil medium allows subtle modeling of facial features and the fabric’s folds, creating a tactile quality that highlights the interplay of light and shadow across the composition.
History & Provenance
The painting entered the collection of the Sursock Museum in Beirut, where it remains on display. As part of Farroukh’s oeuvre, the work reflects his prominence among 20th‑century Lebanese artists and contributes to the museum’s representation of regional portraiture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Moustafa Farroukh (Arabic: مصطفى فروخ; 1901 – 1957) was one of Lebanon's most prominent painters of the 20th century.
