Bulls (Dead Horses) Ramon Casas i Carbo (1866-1932)

The composition presents a scene within what appears to be a bullring or arena. A large, dark bull dominates the left side of the frame, its form rendered with broad strokes and a palpable sense of weight. It stands in partial shadow, suggesting an imminent action or aftermath. To the right, a grey horse is positioned near a figure presumably a rider, both partially obscured by the barrier surrounding the arena. The horse seems weary, its posture conveying exhaustion rather than readiness for movement.
Foregrounded and centrally located lies a fallen equine, sprawled on the sandy ground. Its dark coloration contrasts sharply with the pale tones of the arena floor, drawing immediate attention to its distress. Adjacent to the fallen animal are discarded pieces of equestrian gear: a helmet, saddlecloth, and what appear to be protective pads or boxes. These items suggest a recent event, likely involving the horse’s demise.
The upper portion of the painting depicts a densely packed crowd observing the scene from behind a barrier. Their presence establishes a sense of spectacle and distance, highlighting the performative nature of the events unfolding below. The figures are rendered as indistinct masses, emphasizing their role as passive observers rather than active participants.
A significant subtext within this work revolves around themes of mortality, sacrifice, and the inherent brutality of tradition. The fallen horse serves as a potent symbol of vulnerability and loss, while the bull embodies raw power and potential danger. The discarded equipment underscores the abruptness of tragedy and the cyclical nature of such events. The detached observation of the crowd suggests an acceptance or even normalization of violence within this cultural context. The overall effect is one of melancholy and quiet contemplation on the cost of spectacle and the fragility of life.