#15083 Pavel Filonov (1883-1941)

The composition presents a densely layered and fragmented scene dominated by equestrian figures and human forms rendered in a Cubist-influenced style. A central pair – a rider and horse – occupies the foreground, their forms sharply defined against a chaotic backdrop of overlapping planes and abstracted shapes. The rider’s face is impassive, almost mask-like, while the horse appears powerfully built, its musculature suggested through bold brushstrokes.
To the right, another figure on horseback is visible, holding what seems to be a shield or banner aloft. This figure, along with a smaller bust positioned below it, evokes classical imagery and alludes to heroic narratives. The presence of these elements suggests a deliberate engagement with historical and mythological themes.
The background is particularly complex. It’s not merely a setting but an active element in the works meaning. A jumble of architectural fragments – suggesting buildings or ruins – are interwoven with organic forms that resemble foliage or distorted faces. This creates a sense of disorientation and fragmentation, as if reality itself has been shattered into pieces. The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing shades of gray, blue, and ochre, which contribute to the painting’s somber and unsettling atmosphere.
The overall effect is one of profound unease and psychological tension. The juxtaposition of heroic figures with a fractured and chaotic environment implies a critique of power, heroism, or perhaps even civilization itself. Its possible that the artist intended to convey a sense of disillusionment or despair in the face of historical trauma or societal breakdown. The lack of clear narrative resolution leaves room for multiple interpretations, inviting viewers to actively engage with the work’s ambiguous and unsettling message.