A central cross organises two rows of chalices against a dark reddish background. The golden surface and incised lines give relief to this frieze by Jordi Vila Rufas.
The altarpiece tradition
Jordi Vila Rufas (Barcelona, 1924–2011) was a painter and altarpiece artist. The son of illustrator Joan Vila i Pujol, ‘d'Ivori’, he trained at the Escola Massana, where he also taught. His work renewed the altarpiece technique through knowledge of its materials and processes.
The repetition of the chalices
The chalices are arranged in two tiers on either side of the cross. Their outlines vary in size and shape within a repetitive structure. Gold tones contrast with reds and blacks, while incisions and textured areas interrupt the continuity of the surface.
Technical details
Artist: Jordi Vila Rufas (1924–2011).
Title / subject: Liturgical composition. Frieze of chalices.
Period: Second half of the 20th century.
Technique and support: Mixed media (oil, incision, gold/silver leaf) on wood.
Dimensions: 46.5 × 100 cm.
Signature: Lower right corner.
Provenance: Private collection.
Condition: Very good.
Inspection guarantee: Guaranteed 30-day return period to inspect the work in person.
The Taller Note
The cross divides the frieze without interrupting the continuity of the two rows. Differences between the chalice outlines prevent uniform repetition. Light lines and golden areas overlap the dark background; at the edges, red forms the composition's colour boundary.
