Skip to main content

Generale

Enrico Baj

Artwork Details

Generale
1961
Enrico Baj
mixed media
4 ft. 3 3/4 in. x 38 3/4 in. x 1 1/4 in. (131.44 x 98.43 x 3.18 cm)
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Gosman
1969/2.170

Description

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. 

Usage Rights:

If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.