1960 Centaure phallique Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1943-1961

Here we see a stylized bronze sculpture rendered in a warm, golden hue. The composition is dominated by two figures: a humanoid form and what appears to be a quadruped – likely equine given its anatomy – intertwined in a dynamic pose. Both are highly abstracted, with simplified forms and elongated limbs that contribute to an overall sense of movement and tension.
The humanoid figure stands atop the animal, their posture suggesting either dominance or precarious balance. The arms are raised in a gesture that could be interpreted as offering, warding off, or simply maintaining equilibrium. A prominent, arrow-like shape emerges from the figure’s upper body, extending diagonally across the composition and culminating in a small, spherical form. This element introduces an immediate sense of potential threat or directed energy.
The quadruped is depicted mid-stride, its legs contorted in a manner that emphasizes its motion. The head is tilted downwards, suggesting either submission to the figure above or a focus on something below. The animal’s anatomy is simplified, with minimal detailing, which further enhances the overall stylized aesthetic.
The sculpture rests upon a dark, rectangular base, providing visual grounding and contrasting sharply with the golden figures. This contrast draws attention to the metallic sheen of the bronze, highlighting its materiality.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of power dynamics, vulnerability, and perhaps even sacrifice or offering. The arrow-like form could symbolize aggression, guidance, or a connection between realms. The interaction between the two figures – one seemingly in control, the other potentially subjugated – raises questions about relationships, dependence, and the complexities of co-existence. The abstraction employed allows for multiple interpretations, inviting viewers to project their own narratives onto the scene. The overall effect is one of unsettling beauty, where stylized forms convey a sense of narrative ambiguity and latent tension.