Salah Ghafal Al Rahal

Khaled al-Rahal (1926–1987) was a prominent Iraqi sculptor and painter, recognized as a leading figure in Iraq's modern art movement. Born in Baghdad, he began his formal art education at the Baghdad Institute of Fine Arts, graduating in 1947. In 1953, he joined the Baghdad Modern Art Group, co-founded by his mentor, Jawad Saleem. This group aimed to bridge modern artistic techniques with Iraq's rich heritage. Al-Rahal furthered his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome, earning a degree in 1964.

Al-Rahal's work was deeply influenced by Mesopotamian sculptures, particularly those from Babylon and Assyria. His sculptures often reflect the structure and facial features characteristic of ancient figures. He employed materials such as wood, plaster, and metal, focusing on themes ranging from everyday Iraqi life to historical figures. Notable public works include the Monument to the Unknown Soldier and the Swords of Qādisīyah (Victory Arch) in Baghdad. Additionally, he created the Nasb al-Maseera (March of the Ba'ath) fountain and a bust of Abu Jafar al-Mansur, the founder of Baghdad.

Throughout his career, al-Rahal's contributions significantly shaped Iraq's artistic landscape. His works are held in various collections, including the National Art Gallery of Modern Art in Baghdad and institutions in Moscow, New York, Shanghai, Paris, Rome, Venice, Lucca, and Messina. Despite the challenges faced by Iraq's cultural heritage, al-Rahal's legacy endures through his enduring public monuments and artworks.