#35808 Franz Marc (1880-1916)

The composition presents a dynamic grouping of equine figures within an abstracted landscape. Here we observe two horses dominating the central space; one rendered in deep reds and browns appears to rear upwards, its form sharply angled and conveying a sense of agitated movement. The second horse, largely depicted in shades of grey and black, is positioned lower in the frame, seemingly braced against the upward thrust of its companion.
The background is constructed from geometric shapes – predominantly dark greens, blues, and browns – that suggest dense foliage or architectural structures, though these are rendered with a deliberate lack of detail, dissolving into planes of color rather than forming recognizable forms. A series of curved bands in yellow and orange cut across the composition, adding to the sense of instability and visual complexity. These bands do not appear to adhere to any conventional perspective; instead, they function as independent elements that contribute to the overall emotional intensity.
The artist’s use of color is particularly striking. The vibrant reds of the rearing horse contrast sharply with the muted tones of its companion and the somber background, drawing immediate attention to this figures dramatic pose. This juxtaposition suggests a potential thematic exploration of conflict or opposition – perhaps between strength and vulnerability, or dynamism and restraint.
The absence of clear spatial relationships and the distortion of anatomical forms contribute to an atmosphere of unease and psychological tension. The horses are not presented as representations of naturalistic creatures but rather as symbols imbued with emotional weight. It is possible that the work explores themes related to primal energy, struggle, or a sense of impending disruption within a seemingly stable environment. The flattened perspective and fragmented forms suggest a deliberate rejection of traditional representational techniques in favor of conveying subjective experience and emotional resonance.