Ragheb Ayad (Egyptian 1892-1982) The reading Mixed media Signed and dated 1964 lower right 69 x 49cm (27 x 19¼ in.) Provenance: Purchased in Cairo between 1974-1984 Thence by descent to the present owner Ragheb Ayad (1892-1982) was a pioneer in Egyptian modern art. Ayad chose to record everyday life on the streets of Cairo and the cafes and souks in villages and small towns. Lots 170-186 come from a private collection purchased in Cairo during the 70s & 80s. This collection of works depicts intimate religious ceremonies, townspeople and animals. Ayad was born in Cairo in 1892 and was one of the first students to attend the School of Fine Arts at its opening in 1908. Ayad went on to study in both France and Italy before returning to Cairo in 1930 where he become director of the decorative department of the Faculty of Applied Arts. His long career in teaching paired with his strong, distinctive and expressionistic style was greatly admired amongst Egyptian artists and served as a great influence on his contemporaries and students.