Martorell, Bernardo (Spanish, active 1427-1452)3 Spanish artists

The composition presents a scene of apparent procession or military parade unfolding against a backdrop of intense, fiery red and orange hues. A central figure lies prostrate on the ground in the foreground, his body pale and vulnerable against the vibrant background. He appears lifeless, with his head tilted at an unnatural angle, suggesting death or severe injury.
A group of figures dominates the middle ground. They are arrayed around a white horse, which is adorned with elaborate armor and banners. The individuals accompanying the horse exhibit a range of ages and attire; some wear what appear to be military uniforms, while others are dressed in more civilian clothing. Their expressions are difficult to discern definitively, but there’s an overall sense of solemnity or perhaps detached observance. Numerous spears extend upwards from this group, creating a visual barrier between the fallen figure and the onlookers.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by reds, browns, and creams. The use of red is particularly striking, evoking connotations of suffering, sacrifice, and possibly divine judgment. The rendering style suggests an early Renaissance influence, with attention to detail in the armor and fabrics, but also a certain rigidity in the figures’ poses.
The subtext of this scene seems to revolve around themes of loss, power, and spectacle. The fallen figures vulnerability is starkly contrasted by the imposing presence of the horse and its entourage. It could be interpreted as depicting a moment of public mourning or perhaps even a display of dominance over a defeated enemy. The spears, held aloft, might symbolize authority or serve as instruments of punishment. The overall effect is one of somber grandeur, hinting at a complex narrative involving both personal tragedy and broader political or religious implications.