#11868 Raymond Daussy (1918-)

The composition presents a disconcerting spatial arrangement within what appears to be an interior architectural setting. The perspective is skewed and disorienting; its neither entirely aerial nor strictly frontal, creating a sense of instability. A man in red trousers and a dark jacket hangs upside down from a metal ladder structure that dominates the upper portion of the canvas. His posture suggests a deliberate act rather than a fall – his arms are extended, and he holds what seems to be a small object (possibly a key or tool) in one hand.
Below him, a series of rectangular platforms extend into the space, seemingly suspended from the ceiling. These structures create a layered effect, further complicating the perception of depth and solidity. A partially visible figure is situated on the lower left platform; its form is indistinct, contributing to an overall feeling of isolation and detachment. The color palette is muted, primarily consisting of creams, whites, grays, and pale blues, with the red of the man’s trousers providing a stark contrast.
The painting evokes themes of confinement and precariousness. The upside-down figure suggests a reversal of conventional order or authority; it could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of rebellion or defiance. The ladder itself might represent an attempt at ascension or escape, albeit one that is fraught with uncertainty given the man’s inverted position. The platforms introduce a sense of artificiality and constructed reality, hinting at a world governed by rules that are not immediately apparent.
The indistinctness of the lower figure adds to the paintings enigmatic quality; it could represent an observer, a prisoner, or simply another element within this strange, architectural environment. Overall, the work conveys a mood of quiet unease and psychological tension, prompting reflection on themes of control, freedom, and the nature of perception.