Atribuido a Joan Roig i Soler (1852–1909) - Sailboats at Sunset

1. TECHNICAL DATA

Author: Attributed to Joan Roig i Soler (Barcelona, 1852–1909)

School: Sitges Luminescence School / Catalan painting of the 19th century

Era: End of the 19th century, c. 1880–1900

Proposed title: Sailboats at Sunset

Technique: Oil on cardboard

Work measures: approx. 40 × 30 cm

Frame measurements: approx. 55 × 45 cm

Signature: Signed “Roig” in red in the lower right corner. Next to the signature there is a possible annotation or date, partially legible.

Support: Cardboard

Condition: Condition in keeping with its age. Craquelé, small scuffs and occasional losses of the pictorial layer are visible, especially on the upper left edge and in certain areas of the sky. See detailed photographs.

2. DESCRIPTION

Interesting small-format seascape attributed to Joan Roig i Soler, a key figure in the development of Catalan luminist painting at the end of the 19th century.

The composition depicts two traditional sailing vessels paused on a calm sea during sunset.

The horizon is set ablaze by an intense band of yellows, oranges, reds and violets, while the ships are outlined by dark silhouettes.

The twilight light projects vertically onto the water and constitutes the true axis of the composition.

3. STYLISTIC AND COMPOSITIONAL ANALYSIS

The work is organized around a vertical composition dominated by the expansive development of the sky.

The two main vessels form a triangular structure and guide the gaze toward the luminous center of the horizon.

The execution combines finely described areas —masts, rigging, small figures and hull profiles— with a much freer brushwork in the sky and water.

The treatment of the cirrostratus is especially interesting.

The clouds are built with long horizontal strokes of relatively light material, layering bluish grays, yellows, pinks, vermilions and violets.

The sea functions as a chromatic reflection of the sky, resolved with short horizontal brushstrokes that convey a virtually motionless surface.

This opposition between descriptive precision and atmospheric study places the work within the luminous investigations proper to late 19th-century Catalan painting.

4. ATMOSPHERIC AND LUMINOUS DIMENSION

The scene seeks not only to describe boats.

The true protagonist is the transformation of light in the final minutes of the day.

The strong backlighting turns the boats into dark masses and highlights the complex geometry of masts, sails and lines.

The extensive celestial surface adds depth and a pronounced sense of serenity.

The red buoy on the right introduces a small chromatic accent that visually balances the boats on the left and center.

5. SIGNATURE AND AUTHORSHIP HYPOTHESIS

The painting shows a signature in red pigment in the lower right corner that can be read clearly as “Roig.”

Below it appears a second inscription or possible date, whose full reading is not secure.

The attribution to Joan Roig i Soler is considered by jointly taking into account the signature, apparent chronology, technique and especially the theme and luminous conception of the work.

The depiction of traditional vessels, the Mediterranean coasts, atmospheric effects and strong lighting contrasts occupy a prominent place within the painter’s known output.

The reduced format is also coherent, suitable for direct studies and intimate landscape compositions.

The work is prudently offered as “attributed to Joan Roig i Soler,” without presenting it as a certified work by the artist.

6. OTHER INTERESTING DATA

Joan Roig i Soler was closely linked to the birth of the so-called Sitges Luminescence School.

His painting gave special importance to direct observation of the Mediterranean landscape and to variations of light on beaches, ports and coastal towns.

In the present work, several characteristic elements of this sensibility stand out: the burning sky, the intensity of backlighting, the sea surface used as a mirror of light, and the presence of small boats as a human reference within a landscape dominated by the atmosphere.

The small format enhances its immediate character and study of a specific luminous effect.

The painting also retains its attractive wooden frame, which suitably complements the warm tone of the composition.

7. SHIPPING AND CONDITIONS

The work will be shipped by a professional specialized company.

A custom-made box and foam protections will be used to ensure maximum safety during transport.

We ship internationally to all destinations.

Any surcharges arising from large-format shipments or destinations outside the European Union will be borne by the buyer.

The frame is included as a gift with the artwork and will not be subject to claim.