L’étouffement, éd. 8/8
Badara Camara was a prominent Senegalese artist whose work combined intellectual reflection with abstraction. A key member of the École de Dakar, Camara engaged deeply with Léopold Sédar Senghor’s writings, distinguishing himself from his peers. L’étouffement is one of his most significant tapestries, known for its somber tone and philosophical depth. Its abstract composition reflects the challenges faced by post-independence Senegal, particularly amidst economic hardship. The work is notable for its emotional gravity, contrasting with the more celebratory pieces of his time. This tapestry complements the Met’s collection by offering a poignant, intellectual exploration of Africa’s post-colonial experience.
Artwork Details
- Title: L’étouffement, éd. 8/8
- Artist: Badara Camara (1947–1998)
- Date: ca. 1975
- Geography: Senegal, Thiès
- Culture: Senegalese
- Medium: Cotton (warp), wool (weft), and other unidentified fibers
- Dimensions: Height: 93 1/2 in. × 69 in. (237.5 × 175.3 cm)
- Classification: Textiles-Tapestries
- Credit Line: Florence and Herbert Irving Acquisitions Fund, 2025
- Object Number: 2025.121
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
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