Fateh Moudarres (Syrian, 1922-1999)

Belonging to a series of works painted by the Syrian master Fateh Moudarres during his stay in Rome from 1954 to 1960 to study at the Accademia di Bella Arti, the present work is a charming example of the artist's foray into abstraction. Far from his characteristic totemic compositions referencing Assyrian iconography, this work shows Moudarres' mastering of paint texture and colour palette within what appears to be a studied yet chaotic composition. The deep blues and scattered bright reds inject life into an enchanting and fantastical symphony, rich with expression.