Abstract oil painting Scythian legend Anatoly Tarabanov

№Tar 394

The oil painting on canvas titled "Scythian Legend" is a vibrant and textural homage to the ancient nomadic warriors of the Eurasian steppes, immersing the viewer in the mystique, grandeur, and power of Scythian culture. This artwork, rich with symbolism and deep cultural references, is rendered in earthy reds, golds, ochres, and teals, creating an atmosphere that feels both sacred and mythological. The painting is divided into three interconnected panels, each offering a window into different facets of Scythian life and myth. On the left side, a galloping horse with a strong, almost ghostlike presence bursts through a tangle of stylized spears and lines, representing the freedom, swiftness, and martial prowess of the Scythian cavalry. Horses were central to Scythian life—not only as tools of war and travel but as revered creatures in their spiritual beliefs. The textures here are thick and dynamic, with raised elements that give the horse a sculptural intensity, as if emerging from an ancient mural. It is not just an animal but a spirit of movement and legacy, galloping eternally across the canvas. In the center, the heart of the legend is guarded by a golden shield bearing the emblem of a winged griffin—an iconic mythological creature symbolizing vigilance, strength, and divine protection. Below it lies a short, double-edged sword—akin to an akinakes, the traditional Scythian blade—crossed with a bow, both resting beneath the shield like relics of honor and memory. This central panel acts as a visual altar, encapsulating the warrior spirit of the Scythians. The tactile quality of the paint, raised and burnished with metallic golds, adds a sense of ancient depth and forgotten glory, as if this shield was unearthed from a royal burial mound. To the right, a figure of a regal Scythian woman is shown in soft, almost reverent profile. She holds a decorated ceremonial bowl, her expression introspective and wise. Her robe and headdress, detailed with ornamental patterns and raised textures, speak to nobility and the spiritual dimension of Scythian society. Women in Scythian culture were not only companions to warriors but often warriors themselves, priestesses, and leaders. This section of the painting honors the quiet strength and mysticism of the feminine presence in Scythian mythos. Her offering bowl, held close to her chest, may symbolize ritual, remembrance, or a sacred link between past and present.

*** ABOUT THIS PAINTING ***
* TITLE: "Scythian legend" - Triptych
* ARTISTS: Anatoly Tarabanov
* SIZE: 70x180 cm/'27.55x70.86 inches'
* MEDIUM: oil, canvas, texture
* HAND PAINTED: Original painting from our collection
* CONDITION: we tried to convey the maximum information with the help of photos about this product

About the artists: Anatoly Borisovich Tarabanov was born on September 25, 1953 in Zaporozhye.
Artist - painter.
In 1973 he graduated from the Dnipropetrovsk Art College.
Teachers: Kuko, Shchedrov.
Since 1988 member of the Union of Artists of Ukraine.
Since 1978 participated in regional, republican and foreign exhibitions. Works in the field of easel painting. Author of genre paintings, portraits, landscapes. The works are kept in art museums and in private collections of Ukraine, as well as abroad, in particular in Israel, Poland, France, Germany. Works by Tarabanova AB full of motives of philosophy, allegory, lyrical and poetic world outlook.