Felix Martinez

Private Collection, Europe

The work is in good condition overall, as is the canvas, which is clear and taut. There is evidence of light wear and handling around the edges of the painting, along with a slight undulation on the top right quadrant (sky). Upon close observation, faint networks of craquelures are evident predominantly on the top left quadrant (wall of the room), white blouse (woman on the right), bottom left corner and bottom right corner (above the signature). Examination under ultraviolet light, a minute spot of paint loss is visible on the top register (sky). Framed.
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Throughout the history of Southeast Asian art, Filipinos have been highly regarded for their artworks that are an aesthetical pairing of traditional paradigms, and ideologies. A notable creative influence was the presence of the Spanish who sought to use art, predominantly Catholic iconography, as means to communicate their European value systems upon the local society.

Once such artist whose oeuvre was demonstrative of this cultural exchange was the 19^th century painter Felix Martinez, with his works acting as visual documentation for future generations. Therefore much of what may be viewed as the emergence of Filipino modern art from the late 18^th century onwards, ultimately stems from Western and Asian cultural reciprocity.

The present painting Conversations by the Window is demonstrative of Martinez’s classical Western art education, and yet is distinctly Filipino in time and place. The work is a depiction of another era, a quiet moment of repose that is acted out by three individuals. It is unknown to the audience if they are relatives or friends, for the artist is focused upon their group interaction, rather than providing answers that could place the work into a specific context. The painting may be seen as a period piece, more so now with society’s contemporary framework. However as shown by the people gathered around the table, it is their intimacy of unspoken understanding that continues to resonate with modern audiences, and captivate their interest in the scene at hand.

Unlike Martinez’ peers from the same period, such as allegorical painter Juan Luna, the artist’s oeuvre was largely inspired by paisajes (landscapes) and bodegones (still life), and his collection of works are reflective of this affiliation with the external environment. Much of his landscape paintings depict the Filipino countryside as expansive portraits of the country’s greenery and eco-system. People were rarely seen in those paintings, for it was the natural setting that was the focal point of the compositions.

In this light Conversations by the Window is an unusual piece from the artist. The work may have been a request by a friend or benefactor, for the individuals shown are dressed in fine attire, and are enjoying a peaceful afternoon together. The detail of the fan and newspaper laid out before the woman, are all signs of education and prestige. Demonstrative of his keen observation, the painting provides perspective into an aspect of Filipino society, that though was experienced by few, garners acclaim for its honest portrayal of private connections.

Created during an age where photography had yet to be refined, and able to record everyday interactions, it was the painting medium that allowed the public insight into the daily actions of their neighbours. Therefore the present piece may have begun as documentation by the artist to capture what he deemed important from his lifetime. However Conversations by the Window now transcends history to become a part of the Filipino art canon, and ultimately a pictorial representation of the country’s past.