Joan Sarquella | Boats in the Dry Dock (Costa Brava) | Original P/A Lithograph

The agile stroke and the Mediterranean breeze. An Artist's Proof that captures the maritime essence of Palamós with the mastery and freshness of a natural sketch.

History and Curatorial Analysis

The Sarquella saga and the identity of the Costa Brava

Joan Sarquella Oliveras (Palamós, 1956) perpetuates the great landscape tradition initiated by his father, the master Josep Sarquella. His surname is, by right, synonymous with the figurative painting of Empordà. In this graphic work, the artist transports us to the heart of a traditional boatyard, most likely on Palamós beach or La Fosca cove. The composition documents the tranquility of fishing boats —the iconic Catalan llaüts— resting on the sand next to nets and tackle, while in the horizon, the silhouettes of sailboats are outlined under the coastal mist.

The value of the sketch and the Artist's Proof

The piece stands out for its outstanding technical execution: the plate reproduces with absolute fidelity the freshness of a quick ink drawing nuanced with subtle gray washes, capturing the humid atmosphere of the port with great economy of means. A fascinating documentary detail is the registration "BA5. 175." visible on the central boat, which anchors the scene in the reality of historical maritime records.

Furthermore, the work bears the coveted handwritten annotation "P/A" (Artist's Proof). In the world of graphic editions, these initial prints are reserved for the artist's personal review before authorizing the commercial run. They have an intimate character and guarantee the maximum sharpness of the matrix, making them the most desired examples by experts.

Why is this piece an opportunity for your collection?

• Exclusivity (Artist's Proof): Artist's Proofs represent a minimal fraction of any graphic edition (usually less than 10% of the total run). Possessing an Artist's Proof signed in pencil by the creator's own hand guarantees a unique closeness to the artistic process and greater stability in its market value.

• Artistic Lineage: Acquiring a work signed by a Sarquella is to incorporate into one's own collection a fragment of the pictorial history of the Costa Brava, backed by an established and highly collected family saga.

• Timeless Mediterranean Aesthetic: Its elegant monochromatic palette in grays and blacks, combined with the looseness of the line, makes it a piece of enormous decorative versatility, ideal for adding maritime character and sophistication to contemporary spaces or classic cabinets.

Technical Sheet

• Artist: Joan Sarquella Oliveras (Palamós, 1956).

• Title / Theme: Boats in the boatyard / Maritime landscape of the Costa Brava.

• Technique: Lithography (Reproduction of ink drawing and wash).

• Support: Edition paper.

• Dimensions: Consult.

• Inscriptions: Signed in pencil "J. Sarquella" and annotated "P/A" (Artist's Proof) in the lower left corner. Registration detail "BA5. 175." integrated into the plate.

• Style / Movement: Figurativism / Empordà landscape school.

• Provenance: Private Collection.

• Condition: Good. The paper support retains its integrity, showing the natural patina of period graphic work without structural flaws affecting visual readability.

The Workshop's Note

In collecting works on paper, details make the difference between a simple reproduction and an object of art. This lithograph is an Artist's Proof that testifies to Joan Sarquella's direct approval. His vibrant stroke and the absence of forced color demonstrate a technical maturity that connects directly with the tradition of great European drawing. An intelligent and aesthetically impeccable acquisition for those seeking graphic work with true maritime pedigree.

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