Antoni Clavé

ANTONI CLAVÉ I SANMARTÍ (Barcelona, 1913 - Saint Tropez, France, 2005).
"Roi".1959
Mixed media on paper.
Signed and dated.
Measurements: 31 x 23 cm; 46 x 38 cm (frame).

Work belonging to the famous series of "Kings" developed by Antoni Clavé from the fifties, one of the most representative of his production. The figure is constructed through a powerful synthesis between figuration and abstraction, where the face emerges from a material surface rich in textures, stains and graphic gestures. The crown, resolved with clear cut-outs that contrast with the dark background, introduces a symbolic element that refers both to royal iconography and to an ironic and contemporary vision of power.

At this stage, Clavé moved away from traditional figuration to explore a more experimental language, influenced by informalism and matter art. The work evidences his interest in the superimposition of layers, the expressive use of color and the integration of collage resources.

Settled in France since the end of the Spanish Civil War, Clavé developed an international career, establishing himself as one of the key figures of 20th century Spanish art. His work is part of important collections such as those of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid or the Art Institute of Chicago, and his production of the fifties, especially the "Kings" series, is particularly valued by critics and the market.