The artwork titled “Mace” was created by Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1983. Executed using a combination of acrylic, charcoal, crayon, pastel, and pencil, it forms part of the Neo-Expressionism and Street Art movements. This figurative piece is included in “The Daros Suite of Thirty-Two Drawings” and measures 57 by 76.5 cm. Currently, the artwork resides in the Daros Collection located in Zürich, Switzerland.
The artwork features a blend of abstract and figurative elements, characteristic of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s style. Dominating the piece is a loosely illustrated human figure surrounded by various weapons, including a mace, sword, and dagger, all labeled with annotations. The background displays a mix of seemingly random phrases and sketches, adding layers of meaning and narrative. The recurring use of red highlights directs attention to specific parts of the composition, such as wounds and weapons. The depiction of text within the artwork recalls elements of street art, illustrating a poetic and somewhat chaotic reflection on combat and heroism.
