Spanish School, 20th century.

Spanish School, 20th century.
Based on designs by Mariano Fortuny:
"The Tapestry Seller."
Signed J. Ruiz, 1912.
Oil on panel.
Measurements: 31 x 40 cm; 61 x 70 cm (frame).

The composition faithfully reproduces the famous scene conceived by Fortuny during his stays in North Africa. It depicts the exotic atmosphere of a bazaar in Tangier or Tetouan, where a merchant displays rich North African rugs and tapestries in front of his shop. The painter succeeds in capturing the luminous glow of the Maghreb sun on the whitewashed plaster and brick walls. Through meticulous and nimble brushwork, he skillfully imitates Fortuny’s attention to detail in the richness of the textures (rugs, metals, ceramics, and clothing).