A large painting by Moacir Andrade, Brazil, 1960s “A Lenda Do Pacu”

Acrylic on canvas depicting a central Pacu which is a large Amazonian fish related to the Piranha. The Pacu is surrounded by smaller fish, butterflies and flowers. Signed by the artist in the bottom left corner ” “A Lenda do Pacu” Moacir Andrade Manaus-Amazonas” 1960s

Moacir Andrade was born in 1927 and was a painter, writer, poet, artist, teacher and designer. He was self-taught in painting and painted in and around the Amazon focusing on the people, wildlife and the environment. His work is similar in style to Aboriginal art and is highly decorative in bright colours usually with Amazonian animals, flowers, fauna and local legends.

In 1942, he studied drawing at the Technical School of Manaus. He graduated in Museology from the National Historical Museum in Rio de Janeiro. In 1954

His works portrayed the scenery, life and customs of the Amazon region. He painted portraits of Manaus from ancient times and of life on the borders of the Amazon. He has exhibited in more than 70 countries since 1941 until his death in 2016 and due to his contribution and importance for the history and culture of Brazil, the Amazon Institute paid homage to the artist with a large exhibition at the Feira do Paço in 2017.

His works hang in many museums all over the world and since his death and the recent surge of interest in Brazilian art and design his artwork is now very sought after and pieces of this size, subject and detail are hard to find.