Cavalls Fantasia 1920 30 Pere Daura

The etching presents a dynamic scene dominated by equine forms and a central human figure. Here we observe a rider positioned atop what appears to be two horses conjoined or intertwined, creating a composite creature that defies straightforward anatomical representation. The composition is dense and layered, with the figures emerging from a swirling background of hatched lines that suggest movement and instability.
The artist employed a restricted tonal range, primarily relying on variations in line density to create form and depth. This technique lends the work a sense of immediacy and raw energy. The rider’s posture is assertive, yet somewhat ambiguous; their face is obscured, preventing any clear reading of emotion or intent. They appear both commanding and vulnerable within this chaotic environment.
The background architecture, rendered in fragmented lines, hints at an urban setting but lacks specificity. These structures seem to press in on the central action, contributing to a feeling of confinement or entrapment. The presence of what seems to be a wheel, partially visible near the lower left corner, introduces another layer of complexity – perhaps suggesting machinery, progress, or even a sense of cyclical repetition.
Subtexts within this work appear to revolve around themes of power, control, and transformation. The unusual depiction of the horses could symbolize the harnessing of primal forces, while the rider’s ambiguous expression invites contemplation about the nature of authority and responsibility. The fragmented background might allude to societal disruption or a loss of traditional structures. Overall, the etching conveys a sense of unease and latent tension, prompting viewers to consider the precarious relationship between humanity and the natural world, as well as the potential consequences of unchecked ambition.