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Komar and Melamid — Karl Marx and Cornucopia (Diptych)
Komar and Melamid

Karl Marx and Cornucopia (Diptych)

Two panels unite ideological symbolism with classical abundance, as a stern portrait of Karl Marx confronts an overflowing cornucopia rendered in the style of Soviet Socialist Realism blended with Old Master techniques. Komar and Melamid employ oil and tempera on hardboard to create a provocative juxtaposition between the father of communist theory and the horn of plenty, a symbol traditionally associated with capitalist bounty and material wealth. The diptych format underscores the artists' signature satirical commentary on the contradictions embedded within Soviet ideology and its complex relationship with prosperity and desire.

Medium
oil and tempera on hardboard

🔨 Auction Lot

Contemporary Art Evening Sale

February 10, 2014

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About this work

Komar and Melamid, Karl Marx and Cornucopia (Diptych)

Two panels unite ideological symbolism with classical abundance, as a stern portrait of Karl Marx confronts an overflowing cornucopia rendered in the style of Soviet Socialist Realism blended with Old Master techniques. Komar and Melamid employ oil and tempera on hardboard to create a provocative juxtaposition between the father of communist theory and the horn of plenty, a symbol traditionally associated with capitalist bounty and material wealth. The diptych format underscores the artists' signature satirical commentary on the contradictions embedded within Soviet ideology and its complex relationship with prosperity and desire.

Medium
oil and tempera on hardboard
Seen at
Phillips, New York, London, Hong Kong

Related themes

Post-Soviet, Oil And Tempera, Red, Diptych, Allegorical, Symbolism, Political Art, Contemporary, Satirical, Russian

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