20th C Signed Papyrus Portrait Painting

Painted on papyrus paper rather than canvas, this work uses the natural texture of the surface as part of the image. The fibres remain visible beneath the paint, with areas where pigment soaks in and others where it sits more lightly, giving the face a worn, almost weathered quality. The palette stays close to earth tones — ochres, greys, black and white — and the work is presented in a simple wooden frame that feels consistent with the piece rather than added later.
 
The imagery leans clearly biblical, with a frontal, expressive head that recalls icon painting without following it strictly. While the work is signed “Magdy H.”, part of the surname appears to be obscured by surface wear, suggesting a fuller signature originally present.
 
We were drawn to it for the combination of material and subject — the choice of papyrus, the restrained handling, and the way the image feels both ancient in reference and very direct in execution.
 
Condition: Excellent - surface wear obscuring the surname
Size: W 25.75cm x H 25.75cm x D 2cm