Untitled [Feticcio Personale, Rome] (1952) by Robert Rauschenberg

“Untitled [Feticcio Personale, Rome]” is a photograph created by the artist Robert Rauschenberg in 1952, belonging to the Neo-Dada art movement. The artwork exemplifies the genre through its unique and unconventional approach, characteristic of Rauschenberg’s explorative style.

The artwork features a sculptural bust, set against an indistinct background that evokes a sense of antiquity. The bust, reminiscent of classical Roman portraits, is distinctively altered with various objects attached to it, including what appears to be a length of hair and multiple pins or needles. These additions imbue the classical figure with a disparate, surreal quality, embodying the Neo-Dada influence where high art and everyday objects intersect. The setting suggests an outdoor environment, enhancing the timeless and enigmatic nature of the piece. The composition, with its stark black-and-white contrast and striking modifications, invites viewers to contemplate the convergence of history, art, and modernity.