1934 Courses de taureaux (Corrida) 4 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a chaotic scene within what appears to be an arena or enclosed space. A flurry of figures – human and animal – are rendered in a highly expressive style characterized by thick, visible brushstrokes and a limited palette dominated by earthy tones punctuated with vibrant blues, reds, and purples. The forms are distorted and abstracted, prioritizing emotional impact over realistic representation.
Here we see several individuals engaged in what seems to be a ritualistic confrontation. A central figure, presumably the matador, is positioned amidst the turmoil, identifiable through his distinctive attire – a blue jacket with red accents – and posture of controlled aggression. Around him, other figures are less clearly defined; some appear to be participants, others spectators, their faces obscured or absent entirely. The animal presence is equally forceful. A bull, rendered in shades of brown and orange, dominates the foreground, its form contorted in a display of power and potential danger. Other animals – perhaps horses – are suggested through fragmented shapes and dynamic lines, contributing to the overall sense of movement and unrest.
The background is simplified into broad planes of yellow and green, suggesting an elevated viewing area or a symbolic representation of the arenas structure. The limited depth of field flattens the perspective, intensifying the feeling of claustrophobia and immediacy.
Subtexts within this work seem to revolve around themes of power, control, and spectacle. The distorted figures and aggressive brushwork convey a sense of underlying tension and violence inherent in the depicted event. The anonymity of many participants suggests a broader commentary on societal rituals and the allure of witnessing conflict. The vibrant colors, while visually striking, also contribute to an atmosphere of heightened drama and emotional intensity. Ultimately, the painting captures not merely the surface appearance of the scene but rather its visceral energy and psychological weight.