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Robert Bonaparte
'Figure with Pyramids' By Robert Bonaparte, Oil on Linen Painting

1980

About the Item

This 22' x 28" painting is an oil on linen abstract and surrealist work by Ed Ruscha's friend an colleague, Robert Bonaparte. Done in a minimalist style, Bonaparte utilizes a very limited color palette and incorporates a small amount of detail and subject matter. The focal point of the work is the central figure, which occupies most of the foreground and dominates the composition. The figure has an ambiguous shape, which allows for imagination and curiosity as to what is being seen, although it appears as though it is wearing a detailed helmet and suit of some sort. Minimal lines and shapes indicate the figure's structure and design, with the only somewhat realistic quality being the eyes that face towards the right of the composition, giving the viewer a side profile of the ambiguous figure. In the background, behind the figure, stands three pyramids, also rendered in a simplified, geometric style. One pyramid stands to the left of the composition, while the other two are positioned on the right of the figure. Past the pyramids is a horizon line, creating a linear division from ground and sky, adding to the three dimensionality of the otherwise minimalist and abstract work. The artwork is done in muted, earthy tones of brown and beige. The figure is painted with a more pinkish beige, the ground is more of a light brown/beige and the sky above the figure and pyramids is painted with a tan/grey toned beige. In the vibrant aftermath of WWII, amidst an Oklahoma City blooming with cultural resurgence thanks to New Deal initiatives, a young Robert Bonaparte found his calling alongside his childhood friend and neighbor, Ed Ruscha. While Ruscha's works found global acclaim, Bonaparte's creations remained a treasured secret, known only to a select group of collectors and friends. Born in 1933 in Oklahoma City, Robert Bonaparte emerged as a pivotal yet under-recognized figure in the abstract art scene. From an early age, Bonaparte formed a profound friendship and artistic dialogue with Ed Ruscha, a relationship that would influence both artists' careers. After graduating from the University of Arizona in 1956, Bonaparte's thirst for knowledge took him to Rome, Italy, where he furthered his studies in art, broadening his perspective and technique. In 1959, alongside a cohort of Oklahoma artists, he relocated to California, where his artistic expression flourished. Bonaparte's work, known for its vibrant landscapes and introspective still lifes, has graced galleries worldwide, from Galleria "La Vetrina" in Rome to the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in Norman, Oklahoma, showcasing his international acclaim and versatility. Despite the quieter recognition compared to his contemporaries, Bonaparte's contributions to the art world are invaluable.
  • Creator:
    Robert Bonaparte (American)
  • Creation Year:
    1980
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 22 in (55.88 cm)Width: 28 in (71.12 cm)Depth: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Oklahoma City, OK
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: FRB00061stDibs: LU1441214185752

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