#11870 Raymond Daussy (1918-)

The composition presents a striking and unsettling scene set within what appears to be a cavernous space. The background is dominated by dark, undulating rock formations, rendered in shades of brown and black that create a sense of oppressive depth and enclosure. A single figure, a man dressed in vibrant red and green clothing, occupies the foreground. He sits astride an animal – a creature exhibiting characteristics of both equine and bovine forms – and appears to be restraining it.
The most arresting element is the hybrid being positioned atop the animal. It possesses a human torso with what seems to be a bull’s head, its mouth open in a silent cry or perhaps a roar. The figures posture suggests vulnerability and distress, while the man’s grip on a rope implies control and dominance.
The color palette is limited but impactful. The red of the man’s shirt provides a stark contrast against the muted tones of the background and the animal’s earthy hues. This chromatic emphasis draws immediate attention to his role in the scene. The green trousers offer another point of visual interest, disrupting the overall somberness.
The painting evokes themes of confinement, struggle, and perhaps even subjugation. The cavernous setting suggests a psychological or metaphorical space – a place of hidden depths and unresolved conflicts. The hybrid creature’s existence raises questions about identity, transformation, and the blurring of boundaries between human and animal nature. The mans action could be interpreted as an attempt to tame something wild, or perhaps to contain a part of himself that he finds threatening.
The overall effect is one of unease and ambiguity, prompting contemplation on the complexities of power dynamics and the inherent tensions within the human psyche.