Description
baboon, c. 1950s
Acrylic on masonite
Unigned
35.73 x 19.75 in. (unframed)
original, includes certificate of authenticity from ArtTrust
The painting “Baboon” presents a mandrill, a type of Old World monkey known for its striking facial coloration. The vibrant blue and red hues on the mandrill’s face contrast with the yellow fur around its neck, creating a strong visual focus. The background incorporates geometric shapes and textured patches, suggesting layers of meaning or possibly symbolic elements.
In Zen, the image can be seen as a reminder of the true nature beneath appearances. The mandrill’s vivid colors may represent the many distractions and illusions (Maya) that we encounter in daily life. Zen philosophy encourages looking beyond these superficial aspects to perceive the essence of reality. The stillness in the mandrill’s expression invites the viewer to practice mindfulness and presence, seeking clarity beyond the colorful chaos of the world.
The image connects to the I Ching Hexagram “Li” (The Clinging, Fire), which is associated with brightness and dependence. The bold colors and distinct shapes could symbolize the fire element, which burns with intensity but is also fleeting and dependent on fuel. It reflects the dual nature of beauty and transience, calling attention to the balance of strength and vulnerability in nature.
The painting brings together a sense of natural vitality and philosophical depth. The mandrill’s intense gaze draws the viewer into a contemplation of the boundaries between the animal and human worlds, suggesting an interconnectedness of all living beings. The composition’s layered texture and use of geometry imply that reality is multi-faceted, composed of layers that must be peeled back to reach understanding.
Stylistically, the painting evokes elements of Expressionism, with its emphasis on bold color and emotional impact. The flattened perspective and use of geometric shapes show influences from Cubism, while the texture recalls techniques seen in early 20th-century art movements like Fauvism, where color was used in a non-naturalistic way to convey mood rather than represent reality.
This painting could thus be placed in the lineage of modern art, particularly within traditions that seek to depict inner experiences or spiritual states through vivid color and abstracted forms.
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