Wifredo Lam's 'Coq caraïbe' features a stylised bird figure constructed from geometric shapes and lines, reflecting the artist's fusion of Surrealism with Afro-Cuban themes.

Wifredo Lam (1902-1982) was a Cuban artist who played a significant role in twentieth-century art, fusing Surrealism with Afro-Cuban themes. He studied art in Havana and Madrid, later moving to Paris where he encountered Pablo Picasso, who greatly influenced his artistic direction. Lam's work often explores the intersection of cultures, blending European modernism with the symbols and mythology of his Afro-Cuban heritage. His art addresses themes of identity, colonialism, and the spiritual world. 'Coq caraïbe' presents a stylised bird figure against a muted grey-blue background. The bird's form is constructed from geometric shapes and lines, creating an abstract yet recognisable image. The colour palette is restrained, with shades of grey, white, and touches of green and brown. The composition is relatively simple, focusing attention on the bird's unusual form. The artwork reflects Lam's distinctive style, which combines elements of Cubism, Surrealism, and Afro-Cuban imagery. The bird, a recurring motif in his work, may symbolise freedom, spirituality, or a connection to the natural world.