Ricard Martí Aguiló

RICARD MARTÍ AGUILÓ (Barcelona, 1857–1935).
“Lady with Carnations.”
Oil on canvas.
Signed “R. Martí” in the lower right corner.
In good overall condition. It shows isolated areas of paint loss, especially along the lower edge.
Measurements: 72 × 59 cm; 101 × 82 cm (frame).

The careful rendering of the face and the prominent ornamental role of the carnations place this work within Ricard Martí Aguiló’s most characteristic figurative style. The young woman is depicted in a half-length, profile view, standing out against a dark background that draws attention to her skin tones and the intense red hues of the flowers. The simplicity of her dress is enhanced by embroidery, jewelry, and other details rendered with precise brushwork.

The painter combines a naturalistic portrayal of the model with a marked interest in ornamental elements, particularly evident in the carnations arranged both in her hair and in her hands. This dialogue between the figure and the floral motif also appears in other well-known female compositions by the artist, revealing the close relationship between his portraiture and his renowned dedication to flower painting.

Ricard Martí Aguiló was the son and disciple of Ramon Martí Alsina and developed a realistic style closely related to his father’s, a circumstance that has historically led to confusion between the works of the two. He worked in portraiture, landscape, seascape, and still life; in 1891, he participated in the General Exhibition of Fine Arts in Barcelona. That same year, he painted the Portrait of Narcís Monturiol, which is currently part of the Gallery of Illustrious Catalans at the Barcelona History Museum. He won a gold medal at the 189) Barcelona exhibition, a bronze medal in 1896, and a second medal at the Spanish National Exhibition held in Mexico in 1910.