Tamed

Marian Wawrzeniecki was one of the most eccentric Polish artists of the 20th century. He specialized in studying the culture of the ancient Slavs and its sources. He is considered one of the precursors of Slavic neopaganism in Poland. He reached for pre-Christian symbols and used it, among other things, when signing his works.

In his works, he referred to Slavic culture and interpreted how he wanted to see it. Alongside symbols of pagan worship, such as statues of Svetovid or Svarog, his works are filled with vivid erotic subtexts.

Tamed shows a woman in ancient garb taming a gigantic snake. Its massive body is wrapped around a fence decorated with images of pagan gods. The contrast between the terrifying image of the predator and the smile-inducing decorations is striking. The work can be interpreted in various ways. It features a theme derived from the legend of St. George, the princess, and the dragon. Still, interpreting the composition as a victory of man over instinct, the forces of nature, or even evil is also possible.

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