#15069 Pavel Filonov (1883-1941)

The composition presents a densely populated scene, dominated by figures both human and equine, rendered in a fractured, angular style. A palpable sense of unease permeates the work, stemming from the distorted proportions and unsettling gazes of the individuals depicted.
Here we see several men arranged in what appears to be a procession or gathering. The man on the left is characterized by an elongated face and a severe expression, his head tilted slightly downward. He wears a red garment with intricate detailing around the collar. To his right stands another figure, whose features are more subdued, yet equally unsettling due to their exaggerated size and vacant stare. A third individual, positioned centrally, is enveloped in dark clothing, obscuring much of their face; only a portion of their chin and mouth are visible, contributing to an atmosphere of mystery and potential threat.
The horses, integral components of the scene, are similarly stylized with elongated limbs and distorted musculature. They appear restless, almost agitated, further amplifying the overall sense of tension. The artist placed them in close proximity to the human figures, suggesting a complex relationship – perhaps one of dominance, servitude, or shared vulnerability.
The lower portion of the painting is filled with an abstract pattern of geometric shapes, primarily blue and white, which seem to rise up like waves or shards of glass. This fragmented ground plane destabilizes the scene, preventing any sense of solid footing or stability. The color palette is muted, relying heavily on earth tones – reds, browns, grays – with occasional flashes of brighter hues that only serve to heighten the feeling of discord.
Subtly, a narrative seems to be suggested, though it remains elusive. It’s possible to interpret this as a depiction of societal upheaval or psychological distress. The distorted figures and fractured composition could symbolize the disintegration of order and the anxieties inherent in periods of transition or conflict. The obscured face of the central figure hints at hidden agendas or suppressed emotions. Ultimately, the painting resists easy interpretation, instead offering a visceral experience of disorientation and unease.