L'angelo della Citta 1948

Marino Marini’s sculpture presents us with a bronze figure of a rider atop a horse, with simplified forms and a tactile, almost primal quality. The rough texture and dark patina of the bronze emphasize the materiality of the sculpture. This elicits a visceral response tied to the earth and the ancient relationship between humans and animals. In terms of structure, the statue presents a dynamic tension. The horse and rider, though a single unit, are strained, with the rider gesturing upwards. This creates a visual paradox: the rider looks toward the sky, while his mount is grounded. Marini destabilizes the traditional heroic equestrian statue by making it seem precarious. The rider's pose may be read as an appeal or a warning. Ultimately, this sculpture uses the formal qualities of texture and composition to embody a broader cultural anxiety. The work serves as a potent symbol, encapsulating a sense of unease and calling for constant critical re-evaluation.