George Bahgory (Egypt, born 1932) Al-Mawlawiyya
Procedencia : Provenance: Property from the collection of AbdulMagid Breish, London Published: Louisa Macmillan, Mysa Kafil-Hussain et others, In Vested Interests: from Passion to Patronage, The AbdulMagid Breish Collection of Arab Art, Skira, Milan, 2020 The largest composition by George Bahgory to come to the market George Bahgory, renowned as the master of artistic Caricature in Egypt, has a distinctive style that often merges humour, social critique, and affectionate warmth. His monumental painting depicting a crowded Mawlawiyya ceremony is a vivid and energetic portrayal, brimming with the lively essence of Egyptian culture. This monumental work employs a palette dominated by red, ochre, and earthy tones. The painting captures the chaotic, festive spirit of the Mawlawiyya ceremony with incredible detail. Musicians are seen playing traditional instruments like the oud, their faces expressing joy and concentration. Amongst them, street vendors are depicted selling a variety of items like traditional bread, which is almost comically being juggled by the central figure. The scene is further animated by families and friends captured in moments of celebration, contributing to the communal and festive atmosphere. The Mawlawiyya Festival, closely associated with the Sufi tradition and the Mawlawi order founded by followers of Rumi, is celebrated with a fusion of music, dance, and poetry. In Egypt, it is both a spiritual experience and a cultural display. The whirling dance of the Dervishes is a meditative practice intended to induce a trance-like state, aiming for spiritual communion. Contrasting with the Turkish version of the festival, which features simple white garments symbolizing spiritual purity, the Egyptian Mawlawiyya is notably more colorful. This vividness reflects the broader tapestry of Egyptian cultural festivities, which are typically vibrant and sensory. The Egyptian version of the festival is celebrated as a public, communal event, unlike the more introspective Turkish ceremonies. In this painting, Bahgory brilliantly captures this contrast through his use of intense colors and a dynamic composition, highlighting the Egyptian festival's lively, inclusive spirit. The painting not only showcases the physical appearance of the celebration but also embodies the rich, diverse cultural heritage of Egypt.
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