Kitaj, R(onald) B(rooks) (1932- )

US painter and graphic artist, active in Britain. His work is mainly figurative, and employs a wide range of allusions to art, history, and literature. The Autumn of Central Paris (After Walter Benjamin) (1972-74) is a typical work. His distinctive use of colour and economy of line was in part inspired by studies of the Impressionist painter Degas, and has similarities with oriental art.

Much of Kitaj's work is outside the predominant avant-garde trend and inspired by diverse historical styles. Some compositions are in triptych form.