#04509 Xavier Gosé i Rovira (1876-1915)

The drawing presents a layered composition featuring three female figures, each distinguished by their elaborate headwear and distinct facial expressions. The uppermost figure dominates the visual field; she is depicted in profile, her gaze directed outward with a detached, almost haughty air. Her hair is styled in a bob, characteristic of early 20th-century fashion, and framed by an extravagant hat adorned with cascading black feathers and a tassel. A subtle blush highlights her cheeks, suggesting a degree of refinement or perhaps affected innocence.
Below this central figure, two additional faces emerge from the background, partially obscured yet still discernible. These figures are arranged in a similar profile view, their features rendered with less detail than the primary subject. The lower face is particularly fragmented, appearing as if emerging from a textured backdrop that suggests fabric or patterned wallpaper. This layering creates a sense of depth and complexity, hinting at hidden narratives or unspoken connections between these women.
The artist’s use of line and shading contributes to the overall mood. Delicate lines define the contours of the faces, while subtle gradations in tone suggest volume and form. The limited color palette – primarily consisting of black, white, and touches of red-orange for the hair – further emphasizes the drawings graphic quality.
Subtly, there is a sense of social commentary at play. The elaborate headwear suggests an emphasis on appearances and status within a specific societal context. The detached expression of the central figure could be interpreted as a critique of superficiality or a portrayal of the anxieties surrounding identity in a rapidly changing era. The obscured faces beneath imply that these women are not isolated individuals, but rather part of a larger social network where visibility and recognition are carefully negotiated. Ultimately, the drawing invites contemplation on themes of beauty, status, and the complexities of female representation within a particular historical moment.