Spanish School (XX) - Maternity in deep blue

Maternity in deep blue

Possible postwar Spanish school
Around the 1950s

Identification of the Work

1.1 Technique and Support

Oil on panel

1.2 School and chronology

Spanish postwar school.
Around the 1950s.
Signed artwork.

1.3 Measures

Table: 51 x 36 cm
Current overall dimensions: 61 x 46 cm

ARTISTIC DESCRIPTION

2.1 Composition

The scene depicts an articulated group of women around a central seated figure holding a child in her arms, forming a symbolic reading of collective motherhood. Three upright figures create a vertical rhythm that contrasts with the horizontal mass of the seascape or lakeshore in the background. The circular arrangement suggests intimacy and protection.

2.2 Material and chromatic treatment

The surface presents a dense, impasto-like matter, with pronounced craquelure and an expressive texture that recalls material solutions typical of Spanish painting in the mid-20th century. The palette combines earthy ochers, vivid reds, and deep greens over a turquoise-blue background of great atmospheric power. The volumetric treatment is resolved through large chromatic planes, reducing detail in favor of expressive force.

2.3 Iconography and the Visual Language

The female subject matter, with almost ritual resonances, connects with expressionist and symbolist currents developed in postwar Spain. The archaic character of the figures and the formal simplification evoke certain approaches found in prized authors of the Spanish landscape in the mid-20th century, where the human figure becomes a collective symbol rather than an individual portrait.

Historical Context and Attribution

3.1 Artistic framework

During the 1950s, Spanish painting moves between late post-impressionism, figurative expressionism, and the first material searches that will lead to informalism. This work is situated in that context of plastic renewal, with a strong emotional and chromatic charge.

3.2 Stylistic affinities

There are evident connections to post-war figurative languages in which the pictorial matter takes center stage and the figure is condensed into essential volumes. The chromatic intensity and texture build the image as much as the drawing.

3.3 Origin and Market Considerations

From an important private collection.
The possible affiliation with a prestigious postwar authorial milieu increases its potential appeal within the market specializing in mid-20th-century Spanish art.

Cataloging is conducted using formal and comparative criteria, always exercising caution when it comes to attribution.

Conservation status

4.1 Support

Structurally stable table.

4.2 Painting Surface

Pronounced craquelure in keeping with the technique and age.
Original texture preserved.

Photographs are an essential part of the description. Additional information is provided upon request.

Warranty, Transparency, and Service

5.1 Philosophy

Barcelona Art Gallery is committed to a rigorous, professional, and transparent presentation of the artistic heritage.

5.2 Commitment to the buyer

Clarity in responsibilities

Direct communication

Pre- and post-consultation advice

Complete monitoring of the process

5.3 Packaging and shipping

Specialized professional packaging

Reinforced protection for the board

Certified and insured shipping

Comprehensive logistics tracking

International shipping available

The work will be handled with the utmost professional care.

OPPORTUNITY FOR COLLECTING

6.1 Artistic value

A work with a strong expressive character and an intense chromatic presence, representative of postwar Spanish figuration.

6.2 Market Interest

Spanish art from the 1950s continues to command solid demand, especially when it demonstrates material quality and relevant provenance.