A rare work by a great master of surrealism and expressionism, Francisco Camps Ribera, this oil on panel, signed and dated 1963, is a double composition that bears witness to his rich Mexican period (1939-1980). The piece presents two distinct compositions, allowing for reversibility to adapt to your exhibition desires.
This work comes directly from a private collection, and it represents a unique piece due to its Mexican origin. Most of the creations from this period remained on the American continent, which makes this acquisition exceptional for lovers of European and Latin American art.
The main face highlights stylized shapes and characters on a richly textured background. The vibrant hues – red, blue, yellow and green – dialogue with curved lines and abstract patterns to create a dynamic and dreamlike composition. Human and animal figures intertwine in a unique scenography, typical of the fusion of European surrealism and Mexican folkloric influences.
The reverse of the work presents a complementary composition, providing a fascinating contrast and reinforcing the universality of Camps Ribera’s artistic approach.
Artist background and significance of the work
Francisco Camps Ribera (1895-1991) is one of the most influential Catalan painters of his generation. Trained at the Llotja school in Barcelona and a student of masters such as Isidre Nonell, he initially followed a realist style before moving towards surrealism and expressionism. During his exile in Mexico after the Spanish Civil War, he incorporated traditional Mexican art into his works, influencing a generation of local artists and participating in prestigious exhibitions in New York, Toronto, Paris and Mexico City.
This 1963 work perfectly embodies this period of artistic maturity, mixing European technique with Mexican themes. It also illustrates the influence of his friendships with artists such as Pablo Picasso.
Technical characteristics
Artist: Francisco Camps Ribera (1895-1991)
Technique: Oil on panel (double composition)
Date: 1963
Dimensions: 52 x 35 cm
Signature: Signed, located in Mexico City and dated 1963
Quality of the work
The work is in excellent condition, with perfectly preserved colors and a secure mounting for optimal presentation.
Place in the history of art
Francisco Camps Ribera, with his unique style, occupies an important place in the history of Catalan and Mexican art. His Mexican period marks a turning point where the artist was able to integrate local cultural elements, while remaining faithful to major European trends such as surrealism. His works are now included in prestigious collections such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Mexico City and the Citadel of Barcelona.
Price and provenance
This piece is rare, from a private collection, and has been the subject of increasing interest in recent sales. Works from this Mexican period have reached up to €22,000 at auctions (e.g. Balcli’s, Barcelona, 2014).
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