Préfète Duffaut (Haitian, 1923-2012)

Préfète Duffaut (1923–2012) was one of the most celebrated masters of Haitian art, internationally recognized for his mystical, intricately detailed paintings inspired by the pantheon of Vodou spirits. A visionary of Haitian popular painting, Duffaut created fantastical urban landscapes filled with celestial skies, winding staircases, and radiant architectural cities that merge spirituality with imagination. Emerging in the 1940s, he became known for compositions rich in symbolism, sacred lwa imagery, and dreamlike topographies reflecting Haiti’s cultural and spiritual traditions. His distinctive visual language established him as a central figure in modern Haitian art. Duffaut’s works are held in major museum collections, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Milwaukee Art Museum, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Figge Art Museum, and institutions in Haiti. In 2021, a painting by Duffaut was featured in The New York Times, highlighting his lasting international impact.Today, Préfète Duffaut’s paintings remain highly sought after by collectors for their spiritual depth, architectural complexity, and visionary power. Explore available works below.