The artwork titled “Ciudá y abismos,” created by the artist Xul Solar in 1946, employs watercolor and tempera mediums. It is a notable piece within the Surrealism art movement and falls under the genre of cityscapes.
The artwork presents an abstract and surreal representation of a cityscape. The composition features winding pathways and bridges that connect enigmatic, spiraling buildings, which appear to defy the laws of physics. The structures evoke a sense of vastness and mystery, with their design reminiscent of both futuristic architecture and ancient, monumental constructions. Shadows and lights interplay to create depth, highlighting the fantastical yet foreboding atmosphere. Figures scattered throughout the scene emphasize the scale and intricate labyrinth nature of this imagined city. The unconventional forms and twisted perspectives typical of Surrealism invite viewers into a dream-like exploration, challenging perceptions of reality and urban landscapes.
