José Mongrell

JOSÉ MONGRELL TORRENT (Valencia, 1870 - Barcelona, 1937).
Untitled.
Oil on panel.
Signed in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 50 x 40 cm; 57 x 47 cm (frame).
Mongrell was a key painter of impressionism, with an important debt to his master and friend Joaquín Sorolla, but with a strong and personal personality that is evident in this imposing canvas. The subject is already singular: Sorolla is in a gypsy camp in front of a woman who seems to be reading his hand. A silent dialogue is established between the two through the exchange of glances. Sorolla lowers his head in a reflective attitude, perhaps after listening to the admonishing words of the gypsy woman. Her tanned face, wrapped in a handkerchief, is hardened but at the same time kindly. Mongrell reveals himself to be a true master in the psychological capture of his characters: here, the silent dialogue traps us by the mysterious magnetism of the expressions, which always preserve an impenetrable dignity. Mongrell goes beyond genres, for here he mixes the social theme with the costumbrismo and the homage to his mentor friend. The scene is dominated by a warm palette that reflects the Mediterranean sun: an intense cerulean blue is reflected in the variety of ochers, browns and reddish tones contrasted, although toned and balanced, with the luminous whites and yellows of the attire.