DOMÈNEC MALFEITO TANELLA | PORTRAIT OF YORKSHIRE TERRIER | EXPRESSIVE REALISM | MIXED TECHNIQUE (1981)

A capture full of tenderness and character where the speed of the stroke manages to convey the electric vivacity of the pet.

HISTORY AND CURATORIAL ANALYSIS

The portraitist of character , Domènec Malfeito Tanella (Barcelona, ​​1936), is an artist who has moved with ease between landscape and figure, but it is in sketching from life where his hand demonstrates the greatest skill. Created in 1981, this work departs from the static and prim pet portrait to offer us something more modern: the psychology of the animal.

Visual Analysis: The Texture of the Nerve. The most striking aspect of this piece is how the artist resolves the technical difficulty of the coat. Instead of drawing hair by hair, Malfeito uses a very gestural, quick, and energetic black stroke (charcoal or grease pencil). These controlled strokes create the perfect illusion of the shaggy, unruly texture typical of Yorkshire Terriers.

The background, rendered with vertical sweeps of sanguine or salmon-toned pastel, not only adds warmth but also pushes the figure forward, giving it volume. The animal's focused and bright gaze acts as the focal point, humanizing the composition and immediately connecting with the viewer.

WHY IS THIS PIECE AN OPPORTUNITY?

• "Animalia" theme: Animal-themed collecting ( Dog Art ) has a very loyal and passionate niche market. It's a piece that resonates emotionally.

• Drawing Quality: Beyond the subject matter, it's a very well-executed drawing. The economy of lines used to define the snout and ears denotes a professional artist, not an amateur.

• Decoration with Soul: It is an original work from the 80s that brings warmth and an authentic vintage touch to any corner of the house.

• Vertical Format: Its dimensions (46.5 x 30 cm) make it very easy to place in narrow spaces or as part of a "gallery wall".

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Author: Domènec Malfeito Tanella (1936 - ).

• Title / Subject: Portrait of a Yorkshire Terrier.

• Year/Period: 1981 (Dated under the signature).

• Technique and Support: Mixed media (Charcoal/Grease pencil and sanguine/pastel) on paper.

• Dimensions: 46.5 x 30 cm.

• Signature: Signed "D. Malfeito Tanella" and dated "1981" in the lower right margin.

• Condition: Good. The central drawing is in perfect condition. The paper shows traces of old adhesive tape ( tape marks ) on the top, right, and left margins, the result of having been affixed in the artist's studio.

• Inspection Guarantee: 14-day money-back guarantee to inspect the work in person.

THE WORKSHOP NOTE

Malfeito hasn't painted a "show dog," he's painted a real dog, a little disheveled, with that attentive gaze of one waiting for a treat or a walk. I like the tape marks along the edges; they tell the story of this paper being taped to the painter's easel while the model posed restlessly. With a good mat covering the edges, it makes a fantastic piece.

Includes Collector's Dossier: This work is delivered accompanied by a technical sheet and historical context prepared and printed by El Taller del Coleccionista, certifying our research.