Herminia Creus | The Artist in front of the Mirror | Original Charcoal Drawing

A portrait of great expressive power that captures the image of a painter in his studio. Original work signed by Herminia Creus, where the mastery of chiaroscuro stands out.

History and Curatorial Analysis

Signed by Herminia Creus, this charcoal drawing is a piece that deviates from conventional portraiture to delve into the representation of artistic craft. The artist uses charcoal with a technique that prioritizes volume and atmosphere, achieving an image of great visual density.

The work presents us with the figure of a veteran-looking painter, characterized by his beard and a wide-brimmed hat. The model holds a palette and brushes, elements that, along with his attire—a large work smock—clearly define his professional identity. His gaze, directed straight at the viewer, suggests the artist's introspection during the creative process. Technically, Creus employs marked chiaroscuro; she uses deep blacks for the background and the shadows of the face, allowing light to emerge from the white of the paper in the areas of the forehead and beard, giving the effigy an almost sculptural three-dimensionality.

Why is this piece an opportunity for your collection?

• "Atelier" and studio aesthetic: It is the ideal work to decorate reading rooms, offices, or libraries. It conveys an atmosphere of culture and veteran status that fits perfectly in classic or intellectual settings.

• Charcoal mastery: The original charcoal drawing offers a matte texture and depth that mechanical reproductions cannot achieve. The quality of the blending and the confidence of the strokes in the painter's hands and tools demonstrate the artist's skill.

• Self-portrait/craft theme: Portraits of artists are a highly sought-after subgenre in collecting, as they serve as a tribute to art itself. This piece evokes the tradition of the great masters and the life of 20th-century workshops.

Technical Data Sheet

• Artist: Herminia Creus (Catalan School, 20th Century).

• Title / Theme: Portrait of a painter with palette and brushes.

• Period: 20th Century (c. 1950-1970).

• Technique: Charcoal on paper.

• Dimensions: 42 x 31.5 cm.

• Inscriptions: Signed "Herminia Creus" in the lower right corner. Dated "Barcelona 27-9-192?" in the lower margin (partially legible).

• Style / Movement: Expressive Realism / Academic Tradition.

• Provenance: Private Collection.

• Condition: Good. The support shows the natural tanned tone of age and some signs of dampness on the margins that do not affect the drawing area, adding a patina of authenticity to the work.

The workshop's note

Herminia Creus achieves a striking and characterful image on this paper. The firmness with which she defines the painter's gaze and the delicacy in the treatment of the light on the face make this drawing a piece with a strong psychological impact. Due to its theme and the quality of its execution, it is a recommended acquisition for those looking to incorporate original art with a powerful visual presence and a theme linked to the history of painting.

Includes Collector's Dossier: This set comes with a research study, technical sheet, and curatorial context prepared and printed by El Taller del Coleccionista, certifying our research and known provenance.