“Minotauromachy” is an etching created by the renowned artist Pablo Picasso in 1935. This artwork is a notable example of the intersection between Neoclassicism and Surrealism and is classified within the genre of mythological painting. It measures 49.8 by 69.3 centimeters and currently resides in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located in New York City, NY, USA.
The artwork depicts a complex, dream-like scene rich in symbolism and narrative depth. At the center, one finds the Minotaur, a mythological creature with the body of a man and the head of a bull, engaged in what seems to be a confrontation or interaction with a small girl who is holding a bouquet of flowers and a candle. The Minotaur’s expression appears intense and focused while the girl seems calm, unafraid, suggesting a nuanced relationship between innocence and beastliness.
Surrounding these central figures are additional characters and details that contribute to the surreal atmosphere. To the right of the Minotaur, a woman is sprawled on the ground in a state of distress close to a horse that has collapsed, possibly a reference to the violence and chaos inherent in the minotaur’s legend. Above this scene, there are ghostly images of a woman with outstretched arms and a figure looking on from a window, adding layers of mystery.
Overall, the dense composition, dynamic lines, and interplay of light and dark create a sense of tension and drama. Picasso’s “Minotauromachy” engages viewers with its mythological references and emotional intensity, offering multiple interpretations and serving as a testament to the artist’s mastery in etching.
