Xavier Cugat (1900-1990) - La ceremonia

Pictura Galeria presents this magnificent print belonging to Xavier Cugat, which humorously and critically depicts a social scene where recognition and power relations are shown as a theatrical game full of irony.

· Dimensions with frame: 58.5x46.5x3 cm.
· Lithography dimensions: 37x26 cm.
· Lithograph hand-signed by the artist at the lower right.
· Limited edition 194/300.
· The piece is in good conservation condition.
· The work is sold with a lovely frame with protective glass (included in the auction as a gift).

The work comes from an exclusive private collection in Girona.

Important note: the included photographs are an integral part of the lot description.

The lithograph will be professionally packaged by a IVEX expert (https://www.instagram.com/ivex.online/), using high-quality materials to ensure its protection. The shipping price covers both the cost of professional packaging and the transport itself.
Shipping will be carried out by Correos or GLS with tracking. International shipping available.

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This painting presents a satirical and carefree scene in which several caricatured characters cluster around a moment that seems charged with symbolism and humor. The figures, with exaggerated and expressive features, are arranged in an open composition that allows each gesture and attitude to be appreciated, generating a dynamic and entertaining visual narrative. The scene conveys a sense of social gathering where each character appears to represent a different role or personality, contributing to a reading rich in nuances.
At the top, two figures stand out, dominating the scene by their size and attitude. One shows an enthusiastic gesture, with the arm raised in sign of approval or celebration, while the other, more stylish in bearing, watches with a smile suggesting complicity or a certain irony. Both seem to participate in a kind of informal ceremony, where exaggerated gestures reinforce the humorous tone of the composition.
In the center, a character with marked features holds what appears to be a small medal or badge, an element that becomes a focal point within the scene. Their concentrated and somewhat severe expression contrasts with the lightness of the other figures, adding a moment of comic tension. This gesture, together with the presence of similar objects in the hands of the characters, suggests a symbolic situation related to recognition, merit, or even critique of these concepts.
At the bottom, two opposing characters seem to interact directly, creating a clear visual dialogue. One of them, accompanied by a small animal that adds a touch of sweetness and humor, adopts a more humble or expectant posture, while the other, wearing distinctive clothing, appears to offer or show a pendant with some pride. This exchange reinforces the idea of a theatricalized scene where each figure plays a role within a broader narrative.
The color use is vibrant yet balanced, with warm tones predominating in the figures and a light background that allows the characters to stand out clearly. Bold lines and simplified shapes contribute to immediate legibility, while inviting viewers to pause on the details and expressions. The whole conveys a sense of lightness, irony, and kind critique, where visual humor becomes the main vehicle of expression.
Overall, the work represents a caricatured scene that, through humor and exaggeration, seems to reflect on social relationships, recognition, and power dynamics in a playful and accessible way.