Lot 83
  • 83

Raimundo de Madrazo y Garreta

Estimate
50,000 - 70,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • Raimundo de Madrazo y Garreta
  • Aline con flores (Aline with Flowers)
  • signed R Madrazo lower right
  • oil on panel
  • 56 by 45cm., 22 by 17¾in.

Provenance

Sale: Sotheby's, London, 16 November 2004, lot 160
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

Condition

The panel has been cradled and is in good condition, flat and even. There are scattered areas of retouching visible under ultraviolet light, notably near the lower edge and under the figure's chin. Apart from scattered frame rubbing, notably along the right and lower edges, and some discolouration of the varnish to the background, this work is in very good condition, with fresh, bright colours and fine detail, and ready to hang. Held in a decorative, gold-painted moulded plaster and wood frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Representing the third generation of Spain's most enduring dynasty of artists begun by his grandfather José and his father Federico, Raimundo de Madrazo was the most distinguished figure of the 'Spanish School' in Paris. Settling there in 1862, Madrazo specialised in female portraiture, with the sitter often placed in a refined and exquisite setting. In the present work, Aline Masson, his favourite model, is captured 'unawares', fan in hand, enjoying a quiet moment on a garden terrace.

The influence of his close friend and brother-in-law, Mariano Fortuny, is clearly evident in this work in the wealth of detail and mastery of colour and texture, from her porcelain skin to the almost tactile fur coat lying on the floor. 'Madrazo's portraiture is of that accomplished order that raises it to eminence; grace and fine drawing, colour and strength, are seen united to enable depiction of character, and his works present an air of completion in which refinement and vivacity are noticeable attributes' (A.G. Temple, Modern Spanish Paintings, London, 1906, p. 60).