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.