#43944 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The canvas presents a landscape dominated by a striking color palette and simplified forms. A vast expanse of land stretches across the foreground, rendered in warm ochre tones that gradually transition into a field of intense yellow as it approaches the middle ground. This area is punctuated by a large, dark tree, its silhouette stark against the vibrant backdrop. Beneath the tree stands a solitary equine figure, positioned slightly off-center and facing left.
Behind this immediate scene rise undulating hills or low mountains, painted in shades of deep red and pink that echo the hues of the sky above. The sky itself is a swirling mass of similar colors, creating an atmosphere both dramatic and somewhat unsettling. Theres a deliberate flatness to the composition; depth isn’t achieved through traditional perspective but rather through color intensity and tonal shifts.
The artist employed a textured application of paint, visible in the rough brushstrokes that define the landscape elements. This technique contributes to a sense of immediacy and raw emotion. The limited detail encourages an interpretation beyond literal representation. The solitary horse suggests themes of isolation or resilience within a vast environment. The intense color scheme evokes feelings of melancholy, perhaps even foreboding, while simultaneously hinting at a powerful, untamed beauty.
The absence of human presence, save for the animal, reinforces the painting’s focus on the natural world and its inherent power. It is possible to read this work as an exploration of humanitys place within nature – a small, vulnerable figure against an overwhelming backdrop. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation and a sense of profound solitude.