#04513 Xavier Gosé i Rovira (1876-1915)

The drawing presents a confrontation between two figures, rendered in a style characterized by simplified forms and expressive lines. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the height and presence of each individual.
On the left stands a man dressed in a pinstriped suit, topped with a light-colored hat. He holds a cigarette between his fingers, exhaling smoke that drifts towards the other figure. His posture suggests a degree of nonchalance; he leans slightly forward, hands casually placed in his pockets. The face is rendered with minimal detail, yet conveys an air of detached observation.
Facing him is another man, adorned in what appears to be a ceremonial or theatrical costume – a red skirt and an elaborately decorated jacket featuring intricate white patterns. His expression seems intense, perhaps even confrontational, as he too holds a cigarette, mirroring the gesture of his counterpart. The details of his face are similarly simplified, but theres a sense of contained energy in his stance.
The background is largely indistinct, composed of muted tones that serve to isolate and highlight the two central figures. A suggestion of architectural elements – possibly windows or doorways – can be discerned, adding depth without distracting from the primary interaction.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of power dynamics and social observation. The man in the suit seems to embody a position of authority or privilege, while the other figure appears to be performing a role, perhaps under scrutiny. The shared act of smoking creates an odd sense of connection between them, despite their apparent differences. Theres a quiet tension present – a silent dialogue conveyed through posture and gesture rather than explicit words. The drawing’s strength lies in its ability to evoke a narrative without providing definitive answers, leaving room for individual interpretation regarding the relationship between these two men and the context of their encounter.