Lot 24: Dimashq

Mahmoud Hammad (Syrian, 1923-1988) Dimashq signed in Arabic, signed and dated 'Hammad 83' (lower right); signed and titled in Arabic (on the reverse) oil on canvas 19 7/8 x 16in. (50.5 x 40.5cm.) Painted in 1983

50.5 x 40.5cm.

Private Collection of Mr. Ahmed Helwani, Damascus. Acquired from the above by the present owner circa 2000s.

Multi-talented Syrian artist Mahmoud Hammad is best known for his great contribution to the movement of Arabic Letterism and abstract art. Painted in 1983, the present work Dimashq was painted during Hammad's most renowned abstract period, at a time when he explored the Arab Script. With time, as the artist's signature style developed, the primary decipherable letters fused into pure abstraction, as one can see in this captivating and almost architectural composition. Dimashq pays homage to the artist's native city of Damascus, to its minarets extending into the skyline, its proud mosques, the sun-drenched streets and the clear blue sky. The present work is one of Hammad's most intricate compositions that reveals an exceptional balance between form and colour.