Etching by Francesc Artigau, signed and dated “artigau 81” and marked H/C. Several children gather in an interior, with a large rectangular board held by the central figure.
Figures and space
The children face in different directions, overlapping in front of doors, pictures and a few lines defining the room. Their poses, hairstyles and patterned clothes distinguish each figure.
Line and chiaroscuro
Dense hatching darkens the board and the central figure’s trousers, contrasting with the lightly drawn faces and arms. Small black accents in shoes and clothing distribute the visual weight across the scene. The work retains its Banca Mas Sardà institutional folder.
Technical details
Artist: Francesc Artigau (Barcelona, 1940).
Title / subject: Niños (children’s scene / drawing workshop).
Date: 1981 (contemporary art / New Figuration).
Technique and support: Original etching on heavyweight printmaking paper.
Edition: Copy catalogued as H/C (Hors Commerce / not for commercial distribution). The folder states an edition of 300 numbered and signed copies; this sheet bears the annotation H/C.
Dimensions: Paper: 29 × 33 cm | Platemark: 21 × 27 cm.
Signature and inscriptions: Hand-signed and dated “artigau 81” at the lower right. H/C in pencil at the lower left.
Provenance: Private collection / Banca Mas Sardà institutional edition.
Condition: Excellent. The work retains its structural integrity and includes the bank’s original institutional sleeve/folder.
The Taller Note
The central boy holds a large rectangular board whose dense marks contrast with the lighter outlines of the surrounding figures. Cross-hatching also darkens the trousers and creates volume, while patterned clothing and black shoes distribute small accents throughout the scene. The children face in different directions within an interior suggested by doors, pictures and a few straight lines. The overlapping bodies create depth without crowding the background.
