José Manuel Capuletti (1925-1978) - Intimate & Erotic Scene on Black

Intimate Scene on a Black Background

José Manuel Capuletti (1925–1978)

Drawing on black paper.
Signed
31 x 31 cm
40 x 40 cm with frame

1. IDENTIFICATION
1.1 Technical and Support

Mixed-media drawing on black paper, executed with white line work of great graphic precision, with volumetric modeling based on stippling and linear glazes.

The dark background acts as a neutral stage space, reinforcing the theatrical character of the composition.

1.2 Author and Chronology

José Manuel Capuletti, a singular figure in Spanish art in the second half of the twentieth century.
A work from his mature period, probably the 1970s, a period in which he develops compositions with a strong symbolic and sensual charge.

1.3 Measures

Visible artwork: 31 x 31 cm
With frame: 40 x 40 cm

Black frame in keeping with the sober and contemporary character of the piece.

2. ARTISTIC DESCRIPTION
2.1 Composition

The scene depicts a female figure in an intimate and autonomous pose, captured in a moment of erotic contemplation.

There is no gaze directed at the viewer: the scene unfolds in an introspective frame, almost suspended in the void. The male figure acts as a scenographic counterpoint more than as an active protagonist.

The centralized and floating composition recalls the Baroque theatrical construction reinterpreted in a modern key.

2.2 Technical treatment

Capuletti uses the stark contrast between white and black to sculpt the anatomy.

The modeling is achieved through meticulous stippling that recalls engraving techniques, producing an almost tactile texture.

The textile folds are rendered with graphic dynamism that conveys a sense of suspended movement.

2.3 Iconographic Character

The work should not be read as explicit erotica, but as an aesthetic representation of female desire understood through introspection and bodily autonomy.

A theatricalization of the intimate moment is perceptible, characteristic of the artist's symbolic language.

There is a component of theatrical irony and emotional distancing that is characteristic of its production.

3. HISTORICAL AND ARTISTIC CONTEXT
3.1 Artistic framework

Capuletti developed a very personal body of work within the Spanish postwar scene, distant from both the dominant informalism and traditional academicism.

Their universe combines sensuality, theatricality, and a certain decadent air of eighteenth-century-inspired reinterpretation.

3.2 Market positioning

The artist's signed works on paper continue to generate sustained interest in the national market.

Pieces with sensual or symbolic themes are particularly attractive to collectors of contemporary Spanish graphic art.

3.3 Qualitative comparison

Can be discussed in conjunction with:

Antonio López in the Precision of Drawing

Balthus in the Contained Erotic Tension

Paul Delvaux in the Theatricalization of the Female Body

However, Capuletti brings a cold stage presence and a very personal visual treatment that sets him apart.

4. Conservation status
4.1 Support

Structurally stable paper, with no appreciable deformations.

4.2 Surface

Good overall condition
Slight superficial marks consistent with the passage of time.

4.3 Marco

Marco, sober and in good overall condition.

Photographs are an essential part of the description.

5. WARRANTY AND TRANSPARENCY
5.1 Company

Signed 'Capuletti' in the lower section.

5.2 Origin

Private collection.

5.3 Commitment

Description conducted under formal and comparative criteria.
Additional information available upon request.

Professional packaging specialized in works on paper.
Certified and insured shipment.

6. Collecting Opportunity
6.1 Artistic value

A representative work of the artist's most intimate and theatrical language.

6.2 Patrimonial Interest

Sensual-themed pieces within Capuletti's production occupy a specific niche among collectors.

6.3 Auction context

A singular piece due to its minimalist composition and strong visual contrast.
A strong decorative presence and distinctive character.