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.

· Framed dimensions: 58.5 x 46.5 x 3 cm.
· Lithography dimensions: 37 x 26 cm.
· Lithograph hand-signed by the artist at the bottom right.
· Limited edition 194/300.
· The piece is in good conservation condition.
· The work is sold with a precious 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 an 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 group 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, creating 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 nuance.

At the top, two figures stand out, dominating the scene by their size and attitude. One of them shows an enthusiastic gesture, with the arm raised in signal of approval or celebration, while the other, more stylish in bearing, watches with a smile suggesting complicity or 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 stern expression contrasts with the lightness of the other figures, adding a moment of comic tension. This gesture, along with the presence of similar objects in the hands of other characters, suggests a symbolic situation related to recognition, merit, or even critique of these concepts.

At the bottom, two confronting characters seem to interact directly, generating a clear visual dialogue. One of them, accompanied by a small animal that adds a touch of tenderness and humor, adopts a more humble or expectant stance, while the other, wearing distinctive clothing, appears to offer or display a hanging object with some pride. This exchange reinforces the idea of a staged scene where each figure plays a role within a broader narrative.

The use of color is vibrant yet balanced, with warm tones predominating on the figures and a light background that allows the characters to stand out clearly. The bold lines and simplified shapes contribute to immediate reading, while inviting viewers to pause on details and expressions. The overall scene conveys a sense of lightness, irony, and kind-hearted 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.