Generale

Accession Number
1969/2.170

Title
Generale

Artist(s)
Enrico Baj

Object Creation Date
1961

Medium & Support
mixed media

Dimensions
4 ft. 3 3/8 in. x 38 1/4 in. (130.4 x 97.1 cm);4 ft. 3 13/16 in. x 38 13/16 in. x 1 5/16 in. (131.45 x 98.43 x 3.18 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Gosman

Subject matter
Generale is part of a series of satirical references to war generals form the 1930s and 1940s. Here the General is wearing a loud, colorful outfit that matches the screaming demeanor many of the generals embraced. The wallpaper behind him is very traditional. Prior to the Generals series, Baj co-founded a group known as Arte Nucleare which was concerned with post-war instability. The Generals were quite popular and helped launch Baj in the art community.

Physical Description
This collage depicts the torso and head of a figure consuming the majority of the composition. The left, handless, arm is raised up at a 90 degree angle in salute. The skin and hair is green, eyes are large white circles with small pupils, and the mouth is a white oval. The black and grey background has a pattern of elaborate floral wallpaper and the figures clothing, resembling a military uniform, is made of colorful splotches with a row of medals across the chest. 

Primary Object Classification
Painting

Collection Area
Modern and Contemporary

Rights
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Keywords
Italian (culture or style)
generals
mixed media works
modern and contemporary art
satire (artistic device)
soldier

& Author Notes

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