The Centaur of Pompeii — Oil on paper by Arnaud Quercy

About This Artwork

The Centaur of Pompeii explores the intersection of ancient mythology and modern abstraction through a fragmented cubist interpretation. Part of the Mediterranean Echoes collection, this work reimagines classical narrative through geometric decomposition, where mythological forms emerge from overlapping planes and intersecting lines.

Warm earth tones dominate the composition, with wheat and tan colors filling most areas while burnt sienna and dark brown create structural depth. Blue-gray tones appear in the upper portions, providing cool contrast against the predominantly warm palette. The surface reveals oil paint applied with controlled precision, building layers of translucent and opaque passages that create spatial ambiguity. Geometric forms overlap and intersect throughout, with circular elements anchoring the central composition while angular fragments extend toward the edges.

The work measures 21 × 29 cm and weighs minimal as an oil on paper piece. Created in 2023 as part of Quercy's exploration of Mediterranean themes, it carries certificate number 20231231-0065 with the artist's signature on the back. The painting represents Quercy's contemporary approach to classical subjects, translating mythological narratives into the visual language of geometric abstraction.