06/10/2026
🖼️ Artist Spotlight: Enrico Baj
Known for his sharp satire and irreverent humour, Enrico Baj frequently depicted what he called "decorated people"—high-ranking military officers adorned with medals, sashes, and insignia, often caught in exaggerated gestures of authority.
Created in 1963–64, this work is part of a series exploring power, hierarchy, and absurdity. Baj incorporated spare pieces from English Meccano construction sets, adding a playful yet pointed dimension to his critique of institutional authority.
The painting carries a label from the 1964 Venice Biennale, where it was reportedly included at the last minute after other works by Baj were censored by Italian curators for being disrespectful toward the military and government. Originally titled Mani in Alto (Hands Up), the work was modified in 1964, making both dates—1963 and 1964—significant to its history.
International Surrealism from Tate: Fifty Years of Dreams is on view through August 30.
Image Credit: Enrico Baj. Fire! Fire!, 1963–64. Oil and Meccano on furnishing fabric; 50 5/8 x 38 1/4 in. Tate, Presented by Avvocato Paride Accetti 1973. Archivio Enrico Baj, Vergiate, Varese, Italy. © Enrico Baj. Photo: Tate
