A contemporary work revisiting classical iconography and myth through a dramatic visual language associated with dark Romanticism.
Signed and dated June 2009, the painting stages a pagan rite or mythological episode, possibly recalling Medea or mystery rites. An androgynous central figure, dressed in skins and crowned with laurel, raises a ritual dagger against a background of reds, oranges and ochres suggesting fire or sulphur.
At the figure’s feet lie two pale, motionless, partly covered bodies. Their anatomy contrasts with a dark, dreamlike, horse-like creature entering from the left, adding a surreal and oppressive element. Controlled impasto and strong chiaroscuro recall Baroque painting and Goya’s Black Paintings. Imagined overhead light separates the figures from the background and heightens the narrative tension.
Technical details
Artist: Francisco Benítez.
Title: Mythological Scene / The Sacrifice (assigned title).
Year: 2009.
Style: Neofiguration / Symbolist Surrealism.
Technique: Oil on canvas / panel.
Artwork dimensions: 37 × 29 cm.
Framed dimensions: 61 × 49 cm (vertical format).
Signature: “F. Benitez / Junio 2009”, lower left corner.
Condition: Excellent. Firm paint layer and pure colours.
The Taller Note
The central figure dominates through its raised dagger, skins and laurel crown. Reds, oranges and ochres around it evoke fire or sulphur and reinforce the theatrical character of the scene.
