#41609 Carlos Saenz De Tejada

The drawing presents a scene of intense struggle and movement, rendered in charcoal with a strong emphasis on dramatic chiaroscuro. Here we see three figures engaged in what appears to be a military advance or retreat across a ravaged landscape. The foremost figure, positioned slightly off-center, dominates the foreground. He wears a wide-brimmed hat pulled low over his brow and carries a rifle held at the ready. His expression is one of grim determination, etched with fatigue and perhaps apprehension. A heavy pack rests upon his shoulders, contributing to the sense of burden and exertion.
Behind him, two other figures ascend a steep incline. The figure in the middle appears nearly nude, burdened by an enormous load strapped across his chest and back. His body is contorted under the weight, suggesting immense physical strain. The third individual, positioned higher on the slope, also carries a rifle and seems to be assisting the man below.
The background depicts a crumbling structure – possibly a building or fortification – rendered in loose, sketchy lines that convey a sense of destruction and chaos. A prone figure lies partially obscured at the base of the incline, adding another layer of tragedy and loss to the composition. The ground itself is uneven and treacherous, further emphasizing the difficulty of their progress.
The artist’s use of charcoal allows for a remarkable range of tonal values, from deep blacks that create areas of shadow and mystery to lighter grays that define form and texture. This contrast amplifies the drama of the scene and highlights the physical toll taken on the individuals depicted. The composition is dynamic; diagonal lines created by the figures’ postures and the slope of the terrain generate a feeling of instability and urgency.
Subtly, the drawing seems to explore themes of resilience in the face of adversity, the weight of responsibility, and the human cost of conflict. The anonymous nature of the figures – lacking individualizing details beyond their physical exertion – suggests they represent a collective experience rather than specific individuals. The ruined architecture implies a loss of order and stability, while the prone figure serves as a stark reminder of mortality. Overall, the work conveys a powerful sense of struggle, sacrifice, and enduring hope amidst devastation.