#15152 Pavel Filonov (1883-1941)

Here we see a densely packed composition rendered in a scratchy, almost frantic line style. The monochromatic palette contributes to a sense of unease and urgency. The artist has eschewed traditional perspective, instead opting for a flattened plane where figures and objects overlap and interpenetrate. This creates a feeling of claustrophobia and visual overload.
Dominating the upper portion is a large, stylized head, its features rendered with an almost mask-like quality. It appears to loom over the scene, suggesting authority or perhaps oppression. Below this figure, a multitude of smaller figures are entangled in what seems to be a chaotic struggle. One figure, positioned centrally, is depicted falling under the impact of a raised arm – a gesture that conveys force and potential violence.
The inclusion of architectural elements – simplified houses and structures – suggests a commentary on societal or urban environments. These buildings appear vulnerable and fragmented, further reinforcing the sense of instability. A figure holding a bottle adds another layer of complexity; it could represent intoxication, escape, or perhaps even complicity in the depicted turmoil.
The presence of Cyrillic script integrated into the composition is significant. The text appears to be part of an object within the scene, possibly a sign or banner. Its inclusion suggests a specific cultural or political context that informs the works meaning. It’s likely intended as a direct reference point for those familiar with the language and its associated ideologies.
The overall impression is one of social unrest, perhaps depicting themes of power dynamics, individual struggle against an oppressive force, or the disintegration of societal structures. The artist has employed a deliberately jarring visual vocabulary to convey these complex ideas, leaving room for multiple interpretations while maintaining a palpable sense of tension and anxiety.