Mauritania

Jean-Michel Atlan's "Mauritania" (1948)

"Mauritania", painted by Jean-Michel Atlan in 1948, is an exemplary work of post-war abstract art, executed in oil on canvas. Atlan, a French artist of Algerian-Jewish descent, was a significant figure in the post-war Parisian art scene, known for his unique approach to abstraction that often incorporated elements of Surrealism and Primitivism. The painting reflects Atlan's interest in non-Western art forms, which he integrated into his abstract compositions to evoke a sense of the mystical and the universal. During the late 1940s, Atlan's work gained recognition for its bold use of color and form, contributing to the broader movement of Lyrical Abstraction in Europe. His artistic journey was marked by personal adversity, including his internment during World War II, which profoundly influenced his creative expression. "Mauritania" stands as a testament to Atlan's resilience and his ability to transcend personal and historical challenges through art.

"Mauritania" by Jean-Michel Atlan, created in 1948, is an oil on canvas that exemplifies the artist's abstract style characterized by bold, organic forms and vibrant colors. The painting reflects Atlan's interest in non-representational art, drawing inspiration from both Surrealism and the burgeoning Abstract Expressionist movement.