The artwork “Taurus” is a symbolic painting by Remedios Varo, a renowned artist of the Surrealism movement. Created in 1962, the piece embodies the spirit of Surrealism by intertwining fantastical elements with symbolic meanings, encapsulated in a visually haunting narrative that challenges the viewer’s perception of reality.
In the artwork, a creature that amalgamates bovine features with humanoid elements is central, appearing both mystical and unsettling. The figure exhibits the horns and general form of a bull but the face possesses distinctly human characteristics, evoking a sense of uncanny anthropomorphism. Its vibrant red fur, ablaze with flecks of white, gives a fiery appearance that contrasts with the dark, nebulous background, suggesting a powerful yet ethereal presence.
Below the celestial being are delicate patterns reminiscent of constellations, hinting at astrological associations and possibly connecting the figure to the zodiac sign Taurus. The stars link not only to the title of the artwork but also imbue it with a sense of cosmic significance. Varo’s use of color, the distinct glow around the creature, and the astrology-inspired symbolism amplify the surreal quality of the painting, guiding viewers into a contemplative dialogue about the connections between the earthly and the celestial, the real and the imagined.
