Cuba Libre!

With its embassy in Washington reopening so historically this week, Cuba seems to be very much in the news right now. So, what better time to highlight the offerings on Bidquare connected to the sleeping giant of the Caribbean as she re-emerges from behind the cloud of exile?

Stanford Auctioneers’ Pop, Modern, Contemporary Art & Photography sale contains three works by Cuban master Wifredo Lam. Lam was strongly influenced by Afro-Cuban culture, and inspired by his contact with some of the most renowned artists of the 20th Century, including Picasso, created his own unique and highly influencial style.

Clars Auction Gallery offers a taste of Cuba in its Fine Art & Antique Auction via the work of Mariano Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who like contemporary Lam was strongly influenced by the European masters, is considered one of the most important artists of the 20th C. Cuban avant-garde.

You can’t shine a light on Cuba without hitting the mug of Fidel Castro. Day 2 of the Stanford sale offers two iconic photos featuring the former Cuban leader. The first, Lot 1484,  captures Castro’s triumphant entry into Havana alongside Cienfuegos; the other, Lot 1483, sees Castro with brother-in-arms, Che Guevara. Both are by famed Revolutionary lensman Alberto Korda Diaz Gutierrez.

Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery won’t to be left out of the Cuban appreciation mix. Their Mid-Century Modern Auction, set down for August 8, features Lot 390,  a stunning sculpture by respected Cuban artist Ramon Lago.