Real Automóvil-Club de Cataluña. Copa Tibidabo Ramon Casas i Carbo (1866-1932)

The composition presents a vertically oriented design, dominated by a central female figure and a backdrop suggesting a mountainous landscape. The woman stands in a confident pose, her gaze directed slightly off-center, conveying a sense of poised anticipation. She is dressed in an elegant attire – a tailored jacket with wide lapels over a lighter blouse – and wears a distinctive hat that obscures part of her forehead, lending her an air of sophistication and modernity. In her hand, she holds what appears to be a program or invitation, further reinforcing the context of a formal event.
Behind the figure, a winding road ascends into a hazy, pale yellow landscape. The suggestion of mountains is rendered with simplified forms and muted colors, creating depth without excessive detail. This backdrop isnt intended for realistic depiction but rather serves as an evocative symbol of progress, ambition, and perhaps even adventure – themes commonly associated with early automobile racing events.
The color palette is restrained yet effective. Earth tones – ochre, brown, and beige – dominate the background, while the woman’s clothing introduces touches of cream, black, and a subtle hint of red at her feet. The typography is clear and legible, arranged in a hierarchical manner to emphasize key information: the events sponsoring organization at the top, followed by Copa Tibidabo and the date “24 Mayo 1914” at the bottom. A smaller inscription indicates the printing house responsible for the work.
Subtly, the image conveys an atmosphere of burgeoning modernity and social aspiration. The woman’s attire and posture suggest a certain level of affluence and participation in leisure activities that were becoming increasingly accessible to a wider segment of society during this period. The inclusion of automobiles – implied by the event itself – underscores the transformative impact of technological advancements on transportation and recreation. The overall effect is one of optimism, progress, and a celebration of both speed and elegance.