#44709 Aurelio Arteta (1879-1940)

The painting presents a scene of communal labor within what appears to be a coastal settlement. A group of figures, predominantly women and young men, are engaged in carrying large baskets filled with fish. Their movements suggest a coordinated effort; they stride forward, their bodies angled as if part of a procession or relay system. The foreground is dominated by these individuals, rendered with a focus on their physicality – the musculature of arms and legs, the strain evident in their postures.
Behind them rises a cluster of buildings, characterized by arched doorways and windows, suggesting a traditional architectural style common to Mediterranean regions. These structures are bathed in warm light, contrasting slightly with the cooler tones used for the figures themselves. A hillside ascends on the right side of the composition, adding depth and reinforcing the sense of a contained community nestled within a natural landscape.
The color palette is notable for its vibrancy. Earthy browns and ochres dominate the buildings and ground, while the clothing of the workers introduces splashes of red, blue, yellow, and white. This use of color contributes to an overall feeling of energy and vitality. The artist’s application of paint appears somewhat rough, with visible brushstrokes that add texture and a sense of immediacy to the scene.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of collective effort and resilience. The figures shared task implies interdependence within the community. Their bare feet suggest a connection to the earth and a life lived close to the elements. While there is an element of labor evident in their expressions and postures, there’s also a sense of purpose and perhaps even pride in their work. The composition avoids any overt narrative; instead, it focuses on capturing a moment of everyday existence within this coastal community, hinting at a way of life deeply intertwined with the sea and its bounty.