M.A. Raventós | The Horseman and the Beast | Original Engraving (Artist's Proof A.P.)

Original print by Maria Assumpció Raventós combining surrealist figuration with a complex technical atmosphere. A piece of great graphic value for being an Artist's Proof (P.A.).

History and Curatorial Analysis

This work is a creation by Maria Assumpció Raventós (1930), a key figure in the renewal of contemporary printmaking in Catalonia. Unlike her purely informalist compositions, in this 40 x 30 cm piece, the artist displays a dreamlike universe where human and animal figures intertwine in a dance of lines and textures.

Technically, the work is an example of mastery in the use of intaglio and aquatint. The image is constructed by a dense network of strokes that define the forms of a rider on a fantastic beast, surrounded by symbolic elements that suggest movement and metamorphosis. The use of a chromatic gradient is notable, evolving from earthy tones and ochres in the upper part to a deep, dense purple at the base, giving the composition an upward visual weight and an atmosphere of mystery. The drawing is nervous and fluid, characteristic of an artist who understands the metal plate as a space for expressive freedom.

Why is this piece an opportunity for your collection?

• Author with institutional trajectory: M.A. Raventós has a solid career, with a presence in museums and teaching work that has influenced generations of printmakers. Her signature is a consolidated value in the Spanish graphic art market.

• Exclusivity of the Artist's Proof (P.A.): Being justified as a P.A., this piece is part of the initial proofs that the author made for her personal use or institutional commitment, outside the numbered commercial edition. This gives it a greater proximity to the original creative process.

• Technical and visual richness: The combination of engraved textures and the strategic use of color through gradients makes the work change according to the incidence of light, offering a rich and nuanced visual experience.

• High-quality support: Made on heavy-weight paper with natural deckled edges, the work maintains the nobility of traditional materials, guaranteeing excellent conservation and long-term revaluation.

Technical Data Sheet

• Author: Maria Assumpció Raventós (Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, 1930).

• Title / Theme: Dreamlike composition with figures and animals.

• Period: Second half of the 20th century.

• Technique: Engraving (Aquatint and etching) on heavy-weight paper.

• Dimensions: 40 x 30 cm.

• Inscriptions: Signed in pencil "Mª A. Raventós" in the lower right corner and justified "P/A" in the left.

• Style / Movement: Surrealist figuration / Catalan School.

• Provenance: Private Collection.

• Condition: Good. The paper retains its natural tone and the plate mark is sharp, maintaining the intensity of the original pigments. With a passe-partout, the dirt around it would be hidden.

The Workshop's Note

Maria Assumpció Raventós achieves a perfect synthesis between technical rigor and overflowing imagination in this print. It is a work that invites constant interpretation, ideal for collectors seeking original pieces with strong symbolic meaning and impeccable execution. Due to its nature as an Artist's Proof and the quality of its drawing, it is an acquisition that adds distinction and depth to any collection of contemporary graphic art.

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