“Zambezia, Zambezia,” created by the artist Wifredo Lam in 1950, is an oil painting that falls under the Surrealism art movement. The artwork, which is a portrait, measures 125.4 x 110.8 cm and is housed in the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork presents a complex and abstract figure set against a deep, rich background. The central form, which appears to be part humanoid and part mythical creature, is rendered in shades of blue and green, with sweeping lines and bold shapes that evoke both organic and geometric elements. The figure’s elongated limbs, exaggerated facial features, and intertwining forms give it an otherworldly and surreal quality, characteristic of Lam’s distinctive style. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the use of sharp, angular lines, contributes to a sense of dynamism and movement within the piece. The overall composition is both haunting and mesmerizing, inviting viewers to explore the intricate details and symbolism embedded within the surreal landscape.