Atelier Casas & Utrillo Ramon Casas i Carbo (1866-1932)

The composition presents a figure in dynamic motion against a saturated turquoise background. The central subject appears to be a dancer, her body contorted in a gesture suggestive of flamenco performance. Her arms are raised, one hand extended upwards as if reaching or gesturing emphatically, while the other is bent at the elbow, contributing to the sense of swirling movement. A cascade of dark hair frames her face and flows down her back, further emphasizing the fluidity of her pose.
The dancer’s attire consists of a patterned dress with an intricate floral design in shades of red, white, and green. The patterns repetition creates visual texture and draws attention to the folds and drapery of the garment. Her facial expression is intense, conveying a sense of passion or perhaps melancholy.
Superimposed on this central image are blocks of text arranged in a hierarchical manner. Atelier Casas & Utrillo appears prominently at the top left corner, establishing the context as an artistic event or exhibition. Further details – “Barcelone,” a date (“11 Novembre 1898”), and the phrase “Petite Fête Flamenca offerte à Vincent D’Indy” – provide information about the location, time, and purpose of the gathering. The inclusion of Par Ses Amis et Admirateurs suggests it was a celebratory occasion organized by friends and admirers. A signature appears in cursive script at the bottom right corner.
The color palette is striking: the vibrant turquoise background contrasts sharply with the dancer’s dark hair and dress, creating visual drama. The use of red within the patterned fabric adds warmth and intensity to the overall composition.
Beyond a simple advertisement for an event, the work seems to explore themes of performance, cultural identity (indicated by the flamenco reference), and artistic patronage. The stylized depiction of the dancer suggests an idealized representation rather than a realistic portrait. The text elements function not only as informational details but also contribute to the overall aesthetic design, integrating seamlessly with the visual imagery. Theres a sense of theatricality inherent in the composition, hinting at the performative nature of both art and life.