Three Horses by Franz Marc

Fitting fully into the heart of the formal research of Expressionism, this vigorous work bears witness to the author’s deep attachment to the equestrian world. In this composition of great rhythmic power, the artist Marc Franz celebrates the mystical union of the animal and the landscape through a painting entitled “Three Horses”. Through this group of horses, the author explores the vital energy of creation.

The composition is beautifully organized around three stylized, magnificent horses represented grazing peacefully in a hilly and geometric landscape. In the foreground, an intense brick-red horse on the left faces a purplish-black horse on the right, both leaning towards the ground. In the background, the rounded rump of a third red horse fits into the curve of a large bright yellow arc evoking a beautiful rainbow. The ground and rich vegetation of this pasture are completely fragmented into angular blocks of bright colors, combining shades of blue, green and red. A vibrant zenithal light highlights the sculptural shapes of the beasts.

This work bears witness to the artist’s masterly command of oil painting, using colored outlines to detach his subjects. His work on complementary tones and circular shapes lends an exceptional, deep spiritual harmony and a great plastic power to the whole.