#29409 Jesús Helguera Ausencia (1910-1971)

The artwork presents a nocturnal scene dominated by a monochromatic blue palette. Here we observe a group of figures on horseback traversing what appears to be a shallow body of water, likely a river or lake. The composition is structured around the central diagonal formed by the horses and riders, leading the viewers eye towards the background where a large, luminous orb – presumably the moon – hangs in the sky.
The artist has rendered the figures with minimal detail, emphasizing their silhouettes against the diffused light. They are positioned as if engaged in a purposeful journey, though their destination remains ambiguous. The horses, too, are depicted simply, their forms blending somewhat with the watery environment. This lack of specific detail contributes to an overall sense of anonymity and universality; these could be any travelers, at any time.
The water itself is not portrayed realistically but rather as a reflective surface that mirrors the shapes above, creating a doubled image and enhancing the dreamlike quality of the scene. The surrounding landscape – trees lining the banks and a distant hill – is similarly simplified, contributing to the painting’s stylized aesthetic.
Subtly, theres an implication of vulnerability within this setting. The figures are exposed, their passage across the water seemingly precarious. The monochromatic color scheme reinforces this feeling, evoking a sense of melancholy or quiet contemplation. It suggests a narrative that is not overtly stated but rather hinted at through atmosphere and composition – a journey undertaken under the watchful gaze of the moon, fraught with an unspoken significance. The limited palette also lends itself to a romanticized view of nature and the human relationship with it, characteristic of certain artistic traditions.