Herminia Creus — The Artist before 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.

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.

Technical Data Sheet

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

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

• Period: 20th Century.

• 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 paper has a brownish tone and some signs of dampness at the margins, without affecting the drawing itself.

The Taller Note

Herminia Creus gives this drawing a clear presence and strong character. The firm definition of the painter’s gaze contrasts with the delicate treatment of light on the face, giving the image a marked psychological intensity.