#12193 Rafael Estrany (1884-1958)

The canvas presents a dynamic scene of a horse race in full swing. A multitude of horses and jockeys surge forward across a blurred track, their forms rendered with energetic brushstrokes that convey a sense of intense movement. The palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and umbers – punctuated by the vibrant colors of the jockeys’ silks: red, blue, green, and yellow. These splashes of color draw the eye across the composition, contributing to the overall feeling of chaotic energy.
The artist has opted for a deliberately indistinct background; it appears as an atmospheric wash of pale blues and grays, which serves to flatten the perspective and focus attention on the horses themselves. Details are sacrificed in favor of capturing the immediacy and excitement of the event. The jockeys are largely reduced to simplified shapes, their faces obscured by helmets, emphasizing their role as integral parts of the racing machines rather than individual personalities.
The composition lacks a clear focal point; instead, it presents a continuous flow of motion from left to right. This reinforces the impression of a fleeting moment, an ephemeral spectacle captured in time. The loose application of paint and the lack of precise definition suggest not merely observation but also a subjective experience – the artists visceral response to the energy and drama unfolding before them.
Subtly, there is a sense of both exhilaration and potential danger inherent within the scene. The blurred forms and rapid movement hint at the precariousness of the sport; the risk of falls or collisions is implied without being explicitly depicted. This underlying tension adds another layer to the painting’s appeal, suggesting that it is not simply a representation of a race but also an exploration of human ambition, competition, and the thrill of pushing boundaries.