Spinoza 2016

"Spinoza" (2016) by Alexander Roitburd is a painting that depicts a man, seemingly the philosopher Baruch Spinoza, riding a zebra. The painting is a satirical work that challenges traditional representations of the philosopher, emphasizing the absurdity of placing a historical figure in a contemporary context. The zebra, an animal native to Africa, symbolizes a foreign and unexpected element, further enhancing the surrealism of the composition. Roitburd's playful use of anachronism and absurdity allows him to critique societal norms and the way we interpret history. This work reflects the artist's engagement with contemporary art movements, particularly his interest in reimagining historical figures and challenging the boundaries of artistic representation.