Nubian Figure with Instrument
Mixed media painting on handmade or textured paper/papyrus • Gamal Mahmoud (Egyptian, 20th/21st Century)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Egyptian Art, Modern Middle Eastern Art, Neo-Pharaonic / Folkloric Modernism
Medium & Technique
Mixed media, likely gouache, ink, and earth pigments on textured fibrous support, utilizing expressive brushwork, scraping, and layering techniques
Creation Period
Late 20th century, circa 1970s - 1990s
Dimensions & Format
Vertical rectangular format, estimated approximately 24 x 16 inches (sight size)
Subject Description
A stylized portrait of a traditional Nubian figure wearing a headdress and carrying a stringed instrument or tool, rendered with earth-toned palette emphasizing textures reminiscent of ancient Egyptian reliefs or papyrus
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good condition, retaining strong colors and structural integrity, framed and matted under glass
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,000 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Acquired directly from a gallery in Cairo, Egypt, attributed to the collection associated with artist Gamal Mahmoud
Art Historical Significance
Reflects the broader movement of modern Egyptian artists drawing upon indigenous folklore, Nubian heritage, and ancient aesthetics to forge a distinct contemporary national identity
Notable Features
Distinctive visible signature on the right margin; incorporation of rough-textured, ancient-looking paper substrate that mimics archaeological artifacts; expressive, bold linework defining the facial features
Condition Issues
Natural deckled edges of the paper show some inherent unevenness; minor dust trapped beneath the glazing, otherwise stable with no major tears or losses noted
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in current archival acid-free matting and framing; display away from direct sunlight to prevent pigment fading; maintain stable indoor humidity levels
Collector Notes
Cairo gallery. Well know Egyptian artist Gamal Mahmoud