Paravent 1966

"Paravent" (1966) by Czech Surrealist painter Toyen (1902-1980) is a striking example of her signature style. The composition depicts a shadowy figure in a doorway, partially obscuring a woman draped in a leopard-print garment. Emerging from the woman’s back is a grotesque, monstrous figure with a gaping mouth. The composition’s enigmatic imagery and unsettling atmosphere are characteristic of Toyen’s Surrealist works, exploring themes of transformation, identity, and the subconscious. The painting's visual elements create a sense of unease and mystery, inviting viewers to contemplate the unsettling and irrational aspects of human experience.