Sedia con Pomodoro 1987

Giacomo Manzu created this bronze sculpture, ‘Chair with Tomato’, sometime in the 20th century. The sculpture's title sounds simple, but it invites us to think about everyday life, the kind of life that many people in Italy knew in the post-war years. Manzu, who came from a poor background, often depicted ordinary people and objects. He was also a devout Catholic, which made him wary of artistic institutions. 'Chair with Tomato', is not only about representing reality but about transforming it through the artistic process. By casting a simple, functional chair, a tomato, and some leaves in bronze, Manzu elevates these humble objects, giving them a timeless quality. Understanding the socio-economic conditions and Manzu’s personal history helps us appreciate his artistic choices and this sculpture can be seen as a statement about the value of simple things and the dignity of everyday life. Analyzing Manzu's position in relation to the institutions of art gives another perspective.