Spanish school (XX) - Joven fumando

Portrait of a Modernist Lady with a Cigarette – Oil on Panel, Catalan School.

I present at auction a captivating work in the Catalan modernist style that exudes all the bohemian and sensual atmosphere of the turn of the century in Barcelona. A portrait of a woman with personality, loose brushwork, and a decadent air that grabs you at first glance.

Description of the Work

The painting depicts a young woman with a mysterious air, seated and relaxed, smoking a cigarette with a challenging and elegant gesture. It is a rather uncommon image for the era, breaking with traditional female portraiture and reflecting the free and modern spirit of Catalan Modernism.

Central figure: The model appears with bare shoulders, wearing a dark cloak that falls over an ochre and yellow suit. The brushstroke is quick, impastoed, and expressive, typical of post-impressionist modernism.
Face and attitude: The face is illuminated with warm tones, eyes closed, lips slightly parted. The attitude is one of dreaminess and contained sensuality, capturing an intimate and confidential moment.
Details: A red rose in the hair, the hand resting delicately, and the smoke from the cigarette barely suggested—these add movement and life to the scene.
Dark background: The neutral, deep background makes the figure emerge with strength, creating a theatrical effect and focusing all attention on the protagonist.

The work breathes the influence of Ramon Casas, Rusiñol, and the atmosphere of the Els Quatre Gats café. It is a piece with character, speaking of night, art, and modernist Barcelona.

Support, Frame, and Condition

Technique: Oil on panel
Overall dimensions with frame: 43 x 54 cm
Frame: Original period wooden frame with gilded leaf. The carving, vegetal and Rococo motifs are in excellent condition, with the natural patina that enhances its value and makes it an inseparable part of the artwork.
Condition: Very good overall. The painting maintains a stable surface, vibrant color, and good legibility. It shows natural aging craquelure, with no losses or aggressive restorations affecting the image.

Packaging and Shipping

I will care for your piece as if it were for myself. I perform professional gallery-level packaging: multiple layers of impact protection, rigid corner protectors, protective film, and a reinforced double carton box. Shipped insured with tracking to arrive in perfect condition.

---

A work with a modernist soul, ideal for collectors of Catalan painting, Art Nouveau lovers, or anyone who wants a piece with history and character on their wall.