PO bcs 34 1913 Sava Coupe du Roi Patrick van der Strict

The artwork presents a group portrait centered around two automobiles positioned side-by-side. The vehicles dominate the composition, their reddish-brown hue and robust construction immediately drawing attention. Each car bears prominent numerical markings – “8” on the left and “14” on the right – alongside an identifiable manufacturer’s logo. A series of men are arranged around these machines, forming a hierarchical grouping that suggests both camaraderie and social standing.
The figures are rendered with meticulous detail in their attire: hats, suits, and ties are all precisely depicted, indicative of a specific class and era. The man seated behind the wheel of the right-hand vehicle is positioned centrally, his gaze directed forward, conveying an air of focused determination. He wears goggles, reinforcing the context of speed and competition. The other men flanking the cars appear to be spectators or team members, their expressions ranging from polite smiles to more neutral observations. The inclusion of uniformed figures amongst the group subtly implies official sanction or involvement in the event.
Floral arrangements are placed atop each vehicle, a seemingly incongruous detail that introduces an element of celebratory festivity into the otherwise mechanical scene. These floral decorations soften the industrial aesthetic and suggest a ceremonial occasion rather than a purely functional one. The background is simplified to a suggestion of railway tracks, further grounding the image in a specific setting – likely a race or exhibition event involving automobiles.
The artist’s use of light and shadow contributes to a sense of depth and realism. Highlights accentuate the metallic surfaces of the cars, while darker tones define the contours of the figures faces and clothing. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed formality, reflecting a fascination with burgeoning technology and its intersection with established social structures.
Subtly embedded within this seemingly straightforward depiction are layers of meaning related to modernity, national pride, and the evolving role of leisure activities in early twentieth-century society. The automobiles themselves symbolize progress and innovation, while the meticulously rendered details of dress and demeanor underscore a particular moment in time and a specific social order. The juxtaposition of mechanical power with decorative floral elements hints at an attempt to reconcile industrial advancement with traditional values.