#15067 Pavel Filonov (1883-1941)

The artwork presents a densely populated scene unfolding within a stylized landscape. A long table dominates the central foreground, laden with fish and what appears to be wine in a goblet. Figures are arranged around this table, some seated, others standing, all rendered with simplified forms and bold outlines. The figures faces lack detailed features, contributing to an overall sense of anonymity or universality.
Above the table, a row of individuals is positioned against a horizon line punctuated by stylized trees and animal representations – a swan, a deer, a horse, and what seems to be a bird perched on a branch. A figure in the upper left corner appears to be holding a palette and brush, suggesting an artistic presence or perhaps a commentary on representation itself.
The lower portion of the composition is occupied by musicians playing various instruments – stringed instruments, wind instruments, and percussion – creating a festive atmosphere. The figures are depicted with exaggerated gestures, further emphasizing the celebratory nature of the gathering.
The limited tonal range, achieved through stark contrasts between black and white, contributes to a graphic quality reminiscent of woodcut prints or folk art traditions. This stylistic choice simplifies forms and emphasizes outlines, directing attention towards the arrangement of figures and their actions.
Subtly, theres an element of theatricality at play. The composition feels staged, with each figure seemingly placed for maximum visual impact. The lack of individualization among the participants could be interpreted as a commentary on collective experience or ritualistic behavior. The presence of animals in the background might symbolize nature’s abundance and participation in this communal event. Ultimately, the work conveys a sense of shared celebration, albeit one filtered through a deliberately simplified and somewhat detached perspective.