ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Yinka Shonibare's Fake Death Picture at James Cohan Gallery

artist · 2026-05-01

Yinka Shonibare MBE's artwork, "Fake Death Picture" from 2011, presents a modern reinterpretation of a historical painting by François-Guillaume Ménageot. Measuring approximately 59 by 73 inches, the piece features mannequins dressed in vibrant Dutch wax textiles, replacing the original figures. This digital chromogenic print critiques themes of cultural appropriation and colonial narratives. Notably, it was highlighted on artcritical on February 26, 2012, with support from James Cohan Gallery. Through this work, Shonibare invites viewers to reflect on the interactions between art history and cultural identity.

Key facts

  • Artist: Yinka Shonibare MBE
  • Title: Fake Death Picture (The Death of Leonardo da Vinci in the Arms of Francis I – Francois-Guillaume Ménageot)
  • Year: 2011
  • Medium: Digital chromogenic print
  • Dimensions: 58-3/4 x 72-5/8 inches (framed)
  • Courtesy: James Cohan Gallery
  • Published on artcritical: February 26, 2012
  • Reinterprets Ménageot's painting with mannequins in Dutch wax fabrics

Entities

Artists

  • Yinka Shonibare MBE
  • François-Guillaume Ménageot

Institutions

  • James Cohan Gallery
  • artcritical

Sources