1934 Courses de taureaux (Corrida) 2 Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

The composition presents a chaotic scene dominated by fragmented forms and a vibrant, almost jarring color palette. A sense of frenetic energy pervades the work; it is not a depiction intended for straightforward comprehension but rather one that aims to evoke feeling through visual disruption.
Here we see a densely packed arrangement of figures and shapes, seemingly engaged in a dynamic struggle or spectacle. The central area appears to be occupied by what might be interpreted as human forms – though their anatomy is distorted and abstracted beyond easy recognition. They are rendered with thick, gestural brushstrokes that emphasize movement and tension. A prominent figure, possibly a bull, occupies the lower portion of the canvas, its form suggested through angular lines and dark coloration. Above it, other figures appear to be interacting or confronting this central element.
The background is equally fragmented, composed of overlapping planes of color – greens, blues, reds, and yellows – that create a sense of depth while simultaneously flattening the pictorial space. Architectural elements are suggested in the upper portion, hinting at a constructed environment, perhaps an arena or stadium. These structures are not rendered realistically but rather as simplified geometric forms that contribute to the overall feeling of instability.
The color choices amplify the emotional intensity. The use of bright yellows and reds creates a sense of heat and danger, while the darker tones suggest conflict and potential violence. There is a deliberate lack of modeling or shading; instead, colors are applied in broad strokes, contributing to the painting’s raw and immediate quality.
Subtly embedded within this visual maelstrom are elements that hint at cultural significance. The presence of what appears to be a bull suggests a ritualistic event – perhaps a spectacle involving human interaction with an animal. The distorted figures could represent participants in such a ceremony, their identities obscured by the artist’s expressive style.
Ultimately, this painting is not about literal representation but rather about conveying the emotional and psychological impact of a dramatic event. The fractured forms and intense colors work together to create a visceral experience for the viewer, inviting them to engage with the scene on an intuitive level rather than through rational understanding. It seems to explore themes of power, vulnerability, and the inherent drama of human interaction within a structured setting.