“I Was a Rich Man’s Plaything” is a collage by the artist Eduardo Paolozzi, created in 1947. This work, belonging to the Pop Art movement, is of figurative genre and is held at the Tate Modern in London, UK.
The artwork consists of a variety of visual elements meticulously assembled to create a striking composition. Dominated by a pin-up girl reminiscent of 1940s advertisements, the collage incorporates images and text that reflect consumer culture and post-war sentiments. The inclusion of a Coca-Cola logo, warplane, and suggestive phrases such as “Keep ‘Em Flying!” and “Real Gold” emphasizes themes of desire, glamour, and commercialization. The piece showcases Paolozzi’s skill in juxtaposing seemingly disparate elements to comment on contemporary society.
