#15140 Pavel Filonov (1883-1941)

The composition presents a chaotic scene populated by human and animal figures arranged in a shallow pictorial space. A central struggle unfolds between two male figures; one appears to be attacking the other with what seems to be a knife or similar sharp instrument. The aggressor is positioned dynamically, leaning forward with considerable force, his body contorted in an expression of exertion. His clothing features floral motifs, contrasting sharply with the violence depicted. The victim, seated and seemingly defenseless, exhibits a distorted facial expression suggesting pain or shock. A prominent feature of this figure is the exaggerated size and shape of his head, lending him an almost grotesque quality.
Below these figures lies a wild boar, rendered in dark tones that emphasize its bulk and ferocity. Its posture suggests its either charging or reacting to the commotion above. In front of the boar, a small fawn rests on the ground, seemingly oblivious to the conflict. The fawn’s pale coloration and delicate form provide a stark contrast to the darker, more aggressive elements within the scene.
The background is fragmented and dreamlike. Buildings are depicted in simplified forms, appearing almost as architectural fragments floating within an undefined space. A landscape of green and yellow hues provides a backdrop, but its perspective is ambiguous, contributing to the overall sense of disorientation. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, greens, yellows – with occasional splashes of brighter colors like white and pink in the clothing details.
The painting’s subtexts are complex and open to interpretation. The juxtaposition of floral patterns on the aggressors garment with the act of violence suggests a possible commentary on the duality of human nature – beauty alongside brutality. The presence of the boar, often associated with primal instincts and aggression, reinforces this theme. The fawn, representing innocence and vulnerability, serves as a poignant counterpoint to the surrounding conflict. The distorted proportions and fragmented background contribute to an atmosphere of psychological unease, hinting at themes of trauma, oppression, or perhaps even a symbolic representation of societal discord. The overall effect is one of unsettling tension and ambiguous narrative, inviting viewers to contemplate the darker aspects of human experience.