#29475 Jesús Helguera Ausencia (1910-1971)

The artwork presents a striking juxtaposition of natural and symbolic elements rendered in watercolor. A majestic stag dominates the central composition, its head turned slightly towards the viewer with an expression that conveys both alertness and quiet dignity. The animals form is depicted with meticulous detail, emphasizing the texture of its fur and the intricate branching structure of its antlers.
Behind the stag, a luminous, circular shape radiates outward, suggesting a celestial or spiritual presence. This orb partially obscures the background, which consists of washes of warm ochre and amber tones that evoke a sense of autumnal landscape or perhaps an ethereal glow. The color palette is restrained, relying on subtle gradations to create depth and atmosphere.
A significant element within the composition is the inclusion of a human profile subtly integrated into the stag’s shadow. This figure appears almost ghostly, its features indistinct yet undeniably present. It suggests a complex relationship between humanity and nature, hinting at themes of observation, predation, or perhaps even a shared consciousness. The placement of this shadowed figure implies that the act of looking – the hunters gaze – is intrinsically linked to the subject being observed.
The overall effect is one of contemplative symbolism. The stag, traditionally associated with nobility, grace, and wildness, becomes a vehicle for exploring broader themes concerning perception, identity, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The artist’s choice of watercolor lends a delicate quality to the work, reinforcing the sense of fragility and reverence that permeates the scene. The composition encourages reflection on the viewers own role in relation to the natural world and the shadows cast by human interaction with it.