This is a recreation of the fresco Man at Crossroads, painted in 1933 by Diego Rivera. It was originally intended to decorate the lobby of Rockefeller center in New York. The man in the middle divides two sides, which each represent capitalism and communism. It represents how global ideas and movements, like the ones depicted on each side, can affect both man as an individual and mankind as a people. Across the fresco there are numerous scientific and classical references referencing different accomplishments throughout history. Interestingly enough, the piece was criticized for being pro-communist by New York newspapers, which pushed Rivera to go even further and paint Lenin into one of the scenes. The Rockefellers then chipped the mural off the wall and gave the commision to another artist.
Really interesting painting, with a really powerful meaning. Interesting also the name choose buy Rivera “Man at Crossroads”