art 840 Umberto Boccioni (1882-1916)

The artwork presents a curious juxtaposition of traditional and modern pursuits, rendered in a stylized, almost flattened perspective. A motorcar dominates the left side of the composition, its pale blue hue contrasting sharply with the muted green background. Two figures are visible within the vehicle; one appears to be driving while another sits beside him, both wearing what seem to be military-style caps. The car’s speed is implied by the blurring effect around the wheels and the windblown appearance of the occupants.
To the right of the motorcar, a pack of hounds surges forward in pursuit of something unseen beyond the frame. Their energetic movement is captured through dynamic lines and varied coloration – browns, oranges, and creams – creating a sense of urgency and chaotic motion. Further back, three figures on horseback observe this scene, their postures suggesting amusement or detached curiosity. They are dressed in formal riding attire, reinforcing the traditional nature of the hunt.
The background itself is simplified to a flat expanse of green, punctuated by a single signpost that adds a touch of visual interest and perhaps serves as a marker of location. The overall effect is one of deliberate artificiality; the scene feels staged rather than observed directly.
Subtly, the painting seems to comment on the changing landscape of early twentieth-century society. The motorcar represents technological advancement and modernity, disrupting the established order of the traditional hunt. The juxtaposition highlights a potential conflict between these two worlds – the old ways versus the new. The riders’ detached amusement could be interpreted as either acceptance or condescension towards this disruption.
The artists choice to flatten perspective and employ simplified forms contributes to a sense of satire, suggesting a playful critique of societal shifts and the anxieties surrounding progress. The work doesn’t offer a definitive judgment but rather presents a snapshot of a moment where tradition and modernity collide, leaving room for multiple interpretations regarding their relationship.