Fabrica de Lustres / S. Ricart. 1898.
Artist: ALEJANDRO DE RIQUER (1856-1920)
Size: 20 3/4 x 32 1/2 in./52.7 x 82.5 cm
Condition: B+/ Slight tears at top paper edge; printer's mark at lower right edge.
Printer: Utrillo & Rialp, Barcelona
Reference: Ref: Cataluña, 33; Riquer, p. 104; Cartells Catalans, p. 383; PAI-LXIV, 460
Key Words: Art Nouveau; Spain; Fashion
Fabrica de Lustres / S. Ricart. 1898.
Spain's foremost practitioner of modernisme proves here that his work is an excellent rival to French Art Nouveau. While undoubtedly influenced by the style, the Spanish aesthetic of the late 19th century invited a broader integration of the arts. Notice here the influence of Japanese woodblock printing in the layers of floral details that traipse into the scene; the woman's fiery red tendrils and loose dress reference Pre-Raphaelite portraits; the composition and symbolist imagery are a nod to Belgian posterists like Livemont. Ultimately, the design is meant to promote shoe polish: a testament to de Riquer's unique vision, as well as his goal to democratize art by bringing visions such as these to the average people.
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Artist: ALEJANDRO DE RIQUER (1856-1920)
Size: 20 3/4 x 32 1/2 in./52.7 x 82.5 cm
Condition: B+/ Slight tears at top paper edge; printer's mark at lower right edge.
Printer: Utrillo & Rialp, Barcelona
Reference: Ref: Cataluña, 33; Riquer, p. 104; Cartells Catalans, p. 383; PAI-LXIV, 460
Key Words: Art Nouveau; Spain; Fashion
Fabrica de Lustres / S. Ricart. 1898.
Spain's foremost practitioner of modernisme proves here that his work is an excellent rival to French Art Nouveau. While undoubtedly influenced by the style, the Spanish aesthetic of the late 19th century invited a broader integration of the arts. Notice here the influence of Japanese woodblock printing in the layers of floral details that traipse into the scene; the woman's fiery red tendrils and loose dress reference Pre-Raphaelite portraits; the composition and symbolist imagery are a nod to Belgian posterists like Livemont. Ultimately, the design is meant to promote shoe polish: a testament to de Riquer's unique vision, as well as his goal to democratize art by bringing visions such as these to the average people.
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