R.B. Kitaj's painting Smyrna Greek (Nikos) from 1976-77 held at Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

The painting Smyrna Greek (Nikos) by R.B. Kitaj, created between 1976 and 1977, is an oil on canvas work measuring 244 by 76 centimeters. It is part of the collection at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, Spain. The artwork was featured on artcritical on September 22, 2013. Kitaj, an American-born artist known for his figurative and narrative style, often explored themes of identity and diaspora in his pieces. This painting reflects his interest in portraiture and cultural references, with the title suggesting a connection to Greek heritage. The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, a major museum in Madrid, houses significant works from the 13th to the 20th centuries, including this piece by Kitaj. The posting date indicates it was highlighted over a decade ago, showcasing the museum's ongoing curation of modern art. The dimensions and medium are typical of Kitaj's large-scale oil paintings from that period.