#04424 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The drawing presents a woven basket rendered in graphite on what appears to be paper with a slightly aged or textured surface. The artist has focused primarily on capturing the form and texture of the object through meticulous hatching and cross-hatching techniques. A strong emphasis is placed on depicting the intricate pattern of the weave, using varying densities of lines to suggest light and shadow across its surfaces.
The basket itself occupies a central position within the composition, viewed from a slightly elevated angle that allows for a clear depiction of its rounded form and upward-curving sides. The handle, simple in design, arcs gracefully over the top edge, providing a visual anchor point. A subtle cast shadow extends from the base of the basket onto the paper, grounding it within the pictorial space and suggesting an unseen light source positioned above and to the left.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to its understated quality. The absence of color directs attention solely towards the interplay of light and form, enhancing the tactile impression of the woven material. The artists deliberate use of line work creates a sense of depth and volume, transforming what could have been a flat representation into an object with palpable presence.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a commonplace item, the drawing evokes a feeling of quiet domesticity or rural simplicity. It might be interpreted as a study in texture and form, demonstrating technical skill while also hinting at themes of labor, utility, and the beauty found within everyday objects. The deliberate lack of context – no background elements or surrounding figures – allows for a focus on the inherent qualities of the basket itself, elevating it to a subject worthy of careful observation and artistic representation.