A Boost For Lebanese Art With New Museum Near Syrian Border | Alternative Fruit

A Lebanese art collector has opened his private art collection to the public. Housed in a Bekaa Valley mansion, merely a few miles from the Syrian border, the precious and relevant works number around 800. During the Lebanon war in 2006, many pieces were sold for fear of being destroyed however the remaining collection still remains diverse and vibrant with many original works.


Emile Hannouche, a successful businessman, is the owner of the stately home and artworks within. Opening the home to public viewing four days a week, under the wing of local artistic director Pascal Odille, who has catalogued the museum's inventory, the collector can assure the upkeep of the museum plus provide its significance to all.


The collection, which is mostly made from contributions from the 19th and 20th centuries, is spread thickly across the walls, with little space between them. The floor to ceiling, corner to corner exhibits provide an instant submersion in the rich and diverse culture portrayed in Lebanese art.


During its opening weekend, the museum saw over a thousand visitors including the President, Michael Aoun. Among the Lebanese art, including Kanaan Dib, Daoud Corm, and Omar Onsi, a large selection of 130 early Japanese prints are also on display. These are to be joined by a collection of 250 Christian icons sometime in the summer 2018.

Visit the museum online to get a glimpse of what is on offer