1920 Le rapt (Nessus & DВjanire) Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1919-1930

The composition presents a dramatic scene of abduction, rendered in a style characterized by angular forms and distorted perspective. A muscular figure, dominated by reddish-brown tones, forcefully holds another individual aloft. The held figure appears vulnerable, arms raised in what could be interpreted as either resistance or supplication. Their skin is depicted in pale hues, contrasting sharply with the aggressor’s coloration.
The pair are mounted on a powerful equine creature, its form rendered in shades of white and grey. The horses anatomy is simplified, yet conveys a sense of dynamic movement; it appears to be galloping forward, contributing to the overall feeling of urgency and violence within the scene. Its hooves are large and prominent, grounding the composition while simultaneously suggesting instability.
The background is minimal, consisting primarily of muted blue tones that suggest an ambiguous space – perhaps a sky or a distant landscape. The artist has employed a limited palette, relying on tonal variations to define form and create depth. Linear elements, sketched in pencil, are visible throughout the work, revealing the underlying construction of the figures and adding a sense of immediacy to the execution.
The subtexts within this painting revolve around themes of power, vulnerability, and coercion. The forceful embrace suggests an imbalance of strength and agency. The held figure’s posture is open to interpretation; it could signify struggle or resignation. The presence of the horse introduces elements of wildness and untamed force, further amplifying the narratives intensity. The overall effect is one of unsettling tension, leaving the viewer to contemplate the nature of dominance and submission within a mythological context.