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José Vidal Martín "Vidalmar" - Oil on canvas painting from 1921 - wonderful sculpture study
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The work is precisely dated on the back as May 1921. It bears a pencil signature of "José Vidal" and a two-week execution record (May 11-25, 1921), typical of an academic exercise or a copy of a classical plaster cast.
This interesting figurative work, in a classicist and academic style, depicts a child's bust—a small boy or cherub—partially covered by a dark cloak with deep folds that contrast with the warm tones of the flesh and the intense red of the lower fabric, which balances the composition.
The execution is notable for its treatment of light, which models the face with a clear academic influence, as well as for the careful tonal gradation of the textile folds. The artist plays with the ambiguity between sculpture and living figure, imbuing the composition with a distinctly symbolic and contemplative character. The face has a rounded morphology, with prominent cheekbones and curly hair modeled with strong contrasts, creating sculptural features. The image evokes Baroque and Renaissance models, reinterpreted through loose brushstrokes and an intimate atmosphere.
This is likely a beautiful academic work or a period study with historical, ornamental, and specialized collector value. The canvas has a pronounced texture, typical of supports used in Fine Arts schools.
José Vidal Martín (1896-1963) was a student of Manuel Siguenza, a teacher who taught at the School of Crafts in Valencia and the Royal Academy of San Carlos.
José Vidal held exhibitions at the "Arte" Gallery in Bilbao and the Pinacoteca in Barcelona between 1945 and 1951.
Dimensions: 49 × 39 cm
Technique: Oil on canvas.
Period: 1921.
Condition: Very good, with surface wear and aging consistent with the age of the artwork. It retains a patina appropriate to its age.
** The photographs are part of the description
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsRed, GreyMaterialCanvas, WoodNumber of items1OrientationPortraitArt sizeSmallHeight49 cmWidth39 cm
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Private sellerCádiz, SpainOn Whoppah since July 2026 • 0 sales