Who painted Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea?

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea was painted by Moustafa Farroukh in 1939.

Where can I see Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea?

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea is held by Sursock Museum.

What movement is Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea?

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea is associated with Orientalism.

Artwork

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea

Moustafa Farroukh , 1939

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea 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

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea is a 1939 oil painting by Lebanese artist Moustafa Farroukh, depicting a pivotal moment of Mu'awiya I leading a naval fleet, executed in the tradition of historical painting.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a historical event featuring Mu'awiya I, the founder of the Umayyad Caliphate, at the helm of a Rashidun naval fleet. The scene conveys power and strategic movement, with Mu'awiya's leadership implied through composition.

Technique & Style

Characterized by meticulous detail and muted color palette dominated by blues and greens, the work showcases Farroukh's orientalist approach. Intricate patterns on textiles and the interplay of sail and water textures demonstrate his technical skill.

History & Provenance

Created in 1939, the painting is part of Moustafa Farroukh's extensive oeuvre of over 2,000 works. It is currently housed in the Sursock Museum's collection.

Context

Muʿāwiyah takes to the sea reflects Farroukh's engagement with both historical narrative and the orientalist tradition prevalent among 20th-century Lebanese artists. The work also intersects with his literary output, including biographical writings.

Legacy

As one of Farroukh's notable works, it contributes to his reputation as a prolific and versatile Lebanese artist of the 20th century, with the painting's historical and aesthetic themes continuing to offer insight into the region's artistic and cultural discourse.