Kneeling Figure Playing a Horn

Brahim Dhahak (1931–2004) was a Tunisian painter and wood engraver renowned for his depictions of daily life and landscapes. Born in Gafsa, Tunisia, he demonstrated an early talent for drawing despite a challenging childhood. After working various jobs, he moved to Tunis, where he attended the École des Beaux-Arts. With support from the Italian consul, he secured a scholarship to study at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome from 1957 to 1961, training under Amerigo Bartoli. In 1972, he resided at the Cité Internationale des Arts in Paris. Upon returning to Tunisia, Dhahak established his studio in Sidi Bou Saïd, dedicating himself entirely to his art. ([dafbeirut.org](https://dafbeirut.org/en/brahim-dhahak?utm_source=openai))

Dhahak's work is characterized by simplified shapes and pure colors, drawing inspiration from the geometric motifs and vibrant hues of traditional Tunisian weaving. His subjects often included genre scenes, sunlit landscapes, and portrayals of village life, notably the renowned Café des Nattes. In 1972, he created a series of 33 wood engravings illustrating the "Sira Hilaliyya," chronicling the epic of the Banu Hilal tribe. His contributions to art were recognized with the Grand Prize of the City of Tunis in 1991 and the National Prize for Visual Arts in 1994. ([dafbeirut.org](https://dafbeirut.org/en/brahim-dhahak?utm_source=openai))

Dhahak's works have been exhibited in Tunisia, Switzerland, and Germany, and are held in collections such as the Ramzi and Saeda Dalloul Art Foundation in Beirut. His legacy endures through his evocative representations of Tunisian culture and daily life. ([dafbeirut.org](https://dafbeirut.org/en/brahim-dhahak?utm_source=openai))