The artwork titled “Prometheus” was created by the artist Jose Clemente Orozco in 1930. It is executed in the medium of fresco and is a notable example of the Muralism art movement. This mythological painting is located at Pomona College in Claremont, California, and was created in the United States. It represents the powerful imagery associated with the legend of Prometheus, a figure of ancient mythology.
The fresco depicts the Titan Prometheus in a dynamic and anguished pose, a representation of his punishment for defying the gods by bringing fire to humanity. The central figure of Prometheus is rendered with muscular detail and is surrounded by a range of human figures, which reflect various reactions to the scene. The color palette is characterized by rich earth tones combined with bold highlights and deep shadows, contributing to the dramatic effect. The angular shapes and intense expressions of the characters impart a sense of energy and tension. The overall composition is framed by an architectural vault, which enhances the feeling of confinement and accentuates the narrative’s gravity. The powerful portrayal of human struggle and the emphasis on collective experience are characteristic of Orozco’s broader oeuvre and the philosophical aims of the muralists at that time.