(Tempio Pausania, Sassari, 1885 - Milan 1961)
BLOOD IS MONEY, c 1940
Black china ink and tempera of different colours. Titled blood is money.. and signed SIRONI; 210 x 132 mm.
PROVENANCE: Grosvenor Gallery, London; Studio Paul Nicholls, Milan; Private Collection, Milan.
In the opinion of Francesco Meloni the work is related with the Spanish Civil War (1936-1940). The precise meaning of this terrifying and impressive image is obscure. It is sure that the work has not a directly political significance, considering the full commitment of Sironi in the propaganda of Fascism, which firmly supported Franco in the Spanish Civil War. Is however clear that the drawing suggests a strong sense of horror toward the war.
Mario Sironi, painter, caricaturist, designer and muralist, was one of the most influential and technically skilled artist of 20th century in Italy. As a student he first specialized in mathematics and engineering, but then abandoned them for painting. Studying art in Rome he was involved in Futurism. After World War I, when he was attracted by metaphysical themes and imagery of the industrial world, his style embraced monumental and solid forms rendered in dark tones. Sironi was deeply involved in Fascism and he fashioned the regime’s image in both high and low art forms, from propaganda in the press to monumental mural projects. This identification with Fascism clouded critics’ assessment of his artwork for a long period.
