Pere Pruna

PERE PRUNA OCERANS (Barcelona, 1904 - 1977).
"Allegory", 1944.
Mixed media on paper.
Signed and dated at the bottom.
Measurements: 30 × 21 cm.; 41 × 33 cm. with frame.

Composition dominated by a monumental female figure accompanied by attributes associated with the passage of time, fortune and abundance. The scythe, the winged hourglass and the cornucopia overflowing with fruit introduce an allegorical reading in which life, destiny, wealth and transience appear closely intertwined.

The work stands out for the refined scenographic sense and linear elegance characteristic of Pruna. The palette of ochers, whites, blues and earths gives the piece a decorative and precious quality, close to the theatrical and classicist universe of the artist.

Pere Pruna began exhibiting at a very young age. In 1921 he moved to Paris, where he received the support of Picasso and became part of the intellectual circles of the city, holding a successful exhibition at the Galerie Percier. He also collaborated in the scenographic field, designing sets for the ballet Les matelots by Diaghilev (1925). Throughout his career he won several awards, including second prize at the Carnegie Institute of Pittsburgh exhibition (1928) and the Nonell Prize (1936).

His work is preserved in the Reina Sofia Museum, the MNAC and the Museum of Montserrat, among other collections.