The artwork, “Dog Leg Study,” created by Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1983, forms part of the Neo-Expressionism and Street Art movements. Rendered in acrylic, charcoal, crayon, pastel, and pencil, this figurative piece belongs to the series “The Daros Suite of Thirty-Two Drawings.” It measures 57 x 76.5 cm and is currently situated in the Daros Collection in Zürich, Switzerland.
The artwork exhibits a complex interplay of text and imagery, combining anatomical sketches, symbolic elements, and abstract forms. The central theme appears to focus on the juxtaposition of a dog’s leg and a human foot, highlighted by annotations and diagrams. Notable words and phrases such as “Liberty,” “World Famous,” and references to historical and cultural events suggest a deeper commentary embedded within the piece. The use of varied media and vibrant colors contributes to the raw, dynamic energy characteristic of Basquiat’s oeuvre. The composition, with fragmented figures and text, underscores the artist’s exploration of identity, cultural history, and societal constructs.
