1934 Taureau mourant Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

Here we see a depiction of a bull in a moment of intense distress and aggression. The animal dominates the composition, its form rendered with broad strokes and a limited palette of earthy tones punctuated by flashes of orange and pink within the face. Its posture is one of imminent charge; the body is hunched forward, legs braced for action, conveying a sense of raw power and barely contained energy.
The artist has employed distortion to amplify the bull’s emotional state. The eyes are wide and frantic, the teeth bared in a ferocious grimace. This exaggeration moves beyond mere representation towards an expressionistic portrayal of primal fear and rage. A spear or lance is thrust into its flank, adding another layer of violence and vulnerability to the scene.
The background is simplified, consisting primarily of flat planes of color that serve to isolate the bull and intensify its presence. The lack of depth creates a claustrophobic atmosphere, further emphasizing the animal’s trapped and threatened condition. A few indistinct shapes are visible in the upper portion of the composition, possibly suggesting foliage or an arena, but these remain secondary to the central figure.
The work evokes themes of conflict, vulnerability, and the inherent brutality that can exist within both nature and human interaction. The bulls distress could be interpreted as a metaphor for suffering, oppression, or the struggle against overwhelming forces. The artist’s choice to focus on this single moment of crisis suggests an exploration of the darker aspects of existence, leaving the viewer with a sense of unease and contemplation.