Battle with Cicones 1977

"Battle with Cicones" is a 1977 collage by Romare Bearden, known for his distinctive style of combining painted and cut paper elements. The vibrant colors and bold silhouettes create a dynamic scene, capturing a moment of intense conflict. The work draws inspiration from Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey, referencing the battle between Odysseus's men and the Cicones, a people who dwell in Thrace. The artist's use of collage reflects his interest in African American culture, storytelling, and the reinterpretation of classical themes within a contemporary context.