#11861 Raymond Daussy (1918-)

The composition presents a singular figure engaged in a handstand atop a monumental staircase. The individuals posture is precarious; their body is inverted, with legs extended and arms supporting their weight against the stark, geometric wall that defines the upper portion of the scene. Their attire consists of vibrant green trousers and an ochre-colored shirt, contrasting sharply with the muted palette dominating the background.
The staircase itself descends into a turbulent seascape. Large, stylized waves crash against what appears to be a concrete barrier at the base, creating a sense of impending force and instability. The architecture is rendered in a simplified, almost brutalist style, devoid of ornamentation or human presence beyond the central figure. Above this architectural structure, a fragmented cloud formation drifts across a pale turquoise sky.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of precariousness, ambition, and the individuals relationship to overwhelming forces. The handstand symbolizes a deliberate act of defiance against gravity, suggesting an attempt to maintain balance in a chaotic environment. The monumental staircase can be interpreted as representing societal structures or personal aspirations – a path fraught with challenges and potential for collapse.
The contrast between the figure’s vibrant clothing and the somber tones of the surroundings emphasizes their isolation and perhaps their struggle to assert individuality within a rigid system. The crashing waves introduce an element of natural power, hinting at forces beyond human control that threaten to undermine even the most determined efforts. The fragmented clouds add a layer of ambiguity, suggesting uncertainty about the future or the fragility of hope. Overall, the work evokes a feeling of tension and unease, prompting reflection on the nature of perseverance in the face of adversity.