#28013 Javier Clavo (1918-1994)

The composition presents two figures arranged in a vertical format, rendered with bold, expressive brushstrokes and a vibrant, non-naturalistic color palette. The artist employed a limited range of hues – primarily blues, greens, yellows, reds, and purples – applied in broad planes that flatten the pictorial space.
Here we see one figure standing, its posture suggesting an upward gaze or perhaps a gesture of reaching. Its form is elongated and stylized, with simplified anatomical features delineated by strong lines of color. The body appears to be draped in flowing fabric, though this impression arises from the application of paint rather than any realistic depiction of clothing.
Below the standing figure lies another, reclining horizontally. This individual’s posture conveys a sense of languor or repose. Like the upright figure, its anatomy is simplified and abstracted, with an emphasis on the contours defined by the color blocks. The use of red tones in this lower figure draws attention to its form and creates a visual contrast against the cooler hues dominating the upper portion of the painting.
The background is not rendered as a coherent space but rather as a series of overlapping planes of color. A luminous yellow area appears behind the standing figure, acting as a source of light or perhaps symbolizing an emotional intensity. The dark framing around the edges contributes to a sense of isolation and focuses attention on the figures within.
The painting’s subtexts seem to revolve around themes of aspiration versus repose, dynamism versus stillness. The contrasting postures and color associations suggest a dialogue between these opposing forces. There is also a potential exploration of the human form as an expressive vehicle, prioritizing emotional resonance over anatomical accuracy. The flattened perspective and bold colors contribute to a dreamlike or symbolic quality, hinting at psychological states rather than portraying a literal scene.