JOSEP M.ª DRAPER | CAPE AND BULL PASS | CONTEMPORARY BULLFIGHTING | ORIGINAL ETCHING (30/65)

JOSEP M.ª DRAPER | CAPOTE PASS AND BULL | CONTEMPORARY BULLFIGHTING | ORIGINAL ETCHING (30/65)

The bravery of the bull and the expectation of the cape captured in a print of exceptional scenic force. A graphic gem of a very limited edition, conceived for purist collectors of bullfighting art.

HISTORY AND CURATORIAL ANALYSIS

The tension of the bullfight and immersive perspective

This vibrant intaglio print by the Catalan master Josep M.ª Draper captures a moment of maximum narrative tension in the bullring. Avoiding classic frontal compositions, the artist opts for a bold and almost cinematic framing. The scene places us at ground level, behind three bullfighters equipped with their capes. This brilliant arrangement of the bodies in the foreground acts as a visual frame and irresistibly directs the viewer's gaze towards the back of the arena, delimited by the curve of the barrera, where the bull bursts forth with strength and bravery. It is the pure representation of anticipation and the call.

The mastery of chiaroscuro and intaglio incision

On a technical level, the work reaffirms Draper's virtuosity with the needle. The artist deploys his characteristic cross-hatching to sculpt light and shadow. It is fascinating to observe how the density of the lines precisely defines the heavy embroidery of the bullfighters' suits and the flutter of the capes' fabric in the foreground, contrasting with the faster, sketched, and energetic stroke that brings the animal to life in the distance.

WHY IS THIS PIECE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUR COLLECTION?

• Strictly Limited Edition (High Rarity): The immense curatorial appeal of this print lies in its very limited worldwide run. This is example number 30 of an edition limited to only 65 copies. This marked scarcity makes it an exclusive and highly coveted asset within contemporary graphic collecting.

• Composition and Depth: Unlike other more static pieces, this print shines with its depth of field. The triangular structure formed by the three bullfighters in the foreground and the bull in the background gives the work outstanding dynamism and visual modernity.

• Noble Support and Conservation: The work rests on heavy cotton paper that retains its generous gallery margins and noble natural deckle edges. Its state of preservation is museum-level, even retaining its original protective paper veil (glassine/silk paper).

TECHNICAL DATA

• Artist: Josep M.ª Draper.

• Title / Theme: Capote pass and bull / Third of quites (Contemporary Bullfighting).

• Technique and Support: Original etching on heavy cotton paper with natural deckle edges.

• Edition / Run: Worldwide limited edition of 65 copies. Example 30 / 65.

• Dimensions: Support (Paper): 35 x 28.5 cm | Plate impression: 12.5 x 16 cm.

• Signature and Inscriptions: Numbered "30/65" in pencil in the lower left corner and signed by hand "Draper" in the lower right corner.

• Provenance: Gallery collection / Private collection.

• Condition: Excellent. Museum quality. Intact paper, free of oxidation stains and with perfect intaglio contrast. Includes its original protective sheet.

THE WORKSHOP NOTE

The distinguishing value of this etching is its ability to make us part of the scene. By placing the bullfighters with their backs to us, Draper lends us his vision; he makes us feel the stillness and concentration of the moments before the charge reaches the cloth. It is a well-rounded, atmospheric work of absolute technical rigor, ideal for completing an unparalleled triptych with the rest of the bullfighting series.

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