Attributed to Ricard Opisso — Genre Scene "The Encounter" — Ink and Watercolor

A clash of two worlds captured with satirical brilliance and masterful strokes. A historical graphic document where the sharp dissection of society of its time is presented in a cabinet format with exceptional mounting.

The scrutiny of modernity Ricard Opisso (1880-1966) was a fundamental figure for understanding the graphic evolution of Catalonia. Trained in Gaudí's workshop and seasoned in the tertulias of Els Quatre Gats, he knew how to distill the essence of an era of profound social transformations. This piece, attributed to his hand due to solid stylistic, technical, and thematic similarities, functions as a first-rate sociological document. It presents that sharp gaze, capable of synthesizing with ink and water the psychology of an entire country, characteristic of the best historical illustration publications.

The collision of two Catalonias The scene poses a perfect narrative contrast, resolved with the unmistakable black, continuous, and dynamic line associated with the author's orbit. On one side, the figure of the urban bourgeois: with rounded volumes, neat clothes, and a static attitude, delicately holding his jacket. In front of him, the peasant: lean, wiry, wearing the traditional red barretina and mended trousers.

The visual dialogue is fascinating, built on deeply humanist humor rather than drama. The drop of sweat on the peasant's forehead contrasts with the haughtiness on the face of the city man. The subtle watercolor washes do not compete with the drawing but embrace it, giving the scene depth and atmosphere.

Exceptional mounting What elevates this piece to a highly particular collector's item is its support. It is not conceived on loose paper but is organically mounted on a dark leather base. This material decision gives it an almost artisanal, tactile, and definitive character. The paper presents a natural and imperfect undulation, a result of time and manual mounting, providing a "patina of life" that speaks directly of meticulous workshop work.

Technical details

• Artist: Attributed to Ricard Opisso i Sala (1880 - 1966).

• Title / Theme: Genre Scene (The Encounter).

• Period: First half of the 20th century.

• Technique and Support: Black ink and period watercolor on paper, mounted on leather support.

• Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.5 cm (artwork dimensions).

• Signature and Inscriptions: Features the inscription "Opisso" in the lower right corner.

• Provenance: Private collection (with auction sale history).

• Condition: Good. Presents a very attractive period patina and an organic undulation of the paper due to manual mounting on leather. Vivid and stable colors.

The Taller Note

The contrast between the two figures is conveyed through their stances, expressions and clothing. The rounded forms of the city man face the leaner figure of the peasant in his red barretina and patched trousers. Black outlines organise the scene, while light watercolour washes give it depth. The paper is mounted on a dark leather support.

The scene is discussed in our historical overview of Ricard Opisso, Catalan illustration and his genre drawings.