The artwork “Abut” by Remedios Varo is a symbolic painting belonging to the Metaphysical art movement. Varo’s works are renowned for their dreamlike qualities and intricate symbolism, often reflecting her fascination with the subconscious and mystical realms.
In “Abut,” viewers are presented with a scene that carries an ethereal and otherworldly atmosphere. The central figure appears to be a cloaked character composed of wavy, flowing forms that suggest movement or fluidity, perhaps indicative of the mutable nature of thought or identity. The face of the figure, mostly concealed by the cloak, gazes directly out of the artwork, meeting the viewer’s eyes, while the figure’s hands interact with a box that contains another smaller, mask-like face.
This secondary face, which is in stark contrast to the more organic forms surrounding it, seems almost mechanical or wooden, possibly serving as a metaphor for the construction of identity or the different personas one might adopt. The environment is subdued and monochromatic, featuring muted tones that contribute to the artwork’s enigmatic and contemplative mood. The inclusion of books on shelves in the background introduces an element of knowledge or intellectual pursuit, further enriching the painting’s tapestry of potential meanings and allusions.
