The artwork titled “The Conflagration” was created by Jose Guadalupe Posada and belongs to the Modernismo art movement. It is categorized under the genre of caricature. The artwork portrays a detailed and somewhat exaggerated depiction in line with the caricature style, not losing its representational and narrative power.
In the artwork, the scene is set in front of a traditional building engulfed in flames, signifying a fire emergency. Firefighters, dressed in period attire, are actively involved in extinguishing the fire, utilizing an old-fashioned fire engine. The wheels of the fire engine are large and intricate, emphasizing the historical context of the machinery. The firefighters are engaged in their work with hoses aimed at the building, illustrating a moment of intense action and urgency. The background showcases the architectural elements of the period, contributing to the overall historical ambiance of the piece. The interplay of light and shadow created by the monochromatic palette adds to the drama of the unfolding scene.