“Icône 3,” a remarkable piece crafted by Le Corbusier in 1956, stands as a testament to the artist’s engagement with Cubism and Surrealism within the figurative genre. The artwork exemplifies a complex interplay of abstraction and representational figures, characteristic of these influential art movements.
The artwork features an intricate composition that juxtaposes geometric forms and biomorphic shapes. Dominated by a vibrant red shape at the top, the artwork draws the viewer’s eye immediately. This bold form, complemented by contrasting hues of black, white, blue, yellow, and brown, creates a dynamic visual field. The figurative elements are subtly integrated into the abstract forms, embodying Le Corbusier’s adept synthesis of Cubist and Surrealist techniques. Pieces of machinery, stylized human features, and possibly natural elements are interwoven in a complex, layered manner. The use of diverse shapes and colors not only captures attention but also evokes contemplation about the relationship between the abstract and the tangible.