Nazem Al-Jaafari

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Nazem Al-Jaafari is revered as the founding figure of Impressionism in the region, dedicating his artistic career to the portrayal of old Damascus. His works capture the city's architecture, lifestyles, and fashions at the turn of the 20th century, reflecting a deep appreciation for its cultural heritage. Al-Jaafari's extensive oeuvre, encompassing between 3,500 and 7,000 portraits, largely remains within his personal collection, as he seldom sold his works, preferring instead to establish a future museum dedicated to his legacy. His reclusive nature often placed him at odds with contemporaries, leading him to seek exhibition opportunities abroad, where he showcased his art in South America and Europe. In 2006, a significant retrospective of his work was held at the National Museum in Damascus, coinciding with the release of two publications celebrating his life and contributions. Al-Jaafari's legacy continues to resonate in public collections, including the Museum of Damascus, with select pieces having been auctioned at Bonhams Dubai and Ayyam Auctions in Beirut.