#04431 Xavier Valls (1923-2006)

The drawing presents a potted plant viewed in profile against a plain background. The composition is straightforward and centered, directing immediate attention to the subject matter. Here we see a cylindrical terracotta pot, rendered with careful attention to its texture; subtle variations in tone suggest the rough surface of fired clay. A small plant emerges from within, its leaves depicted in varying shades of green, hinting at light reflecting off their surfaces. The artist has employed delicate lines and shading to convey a sense of volume and three-dimensionality for both the pot and foliage.
The simplicity of the scene lends itself to multiple interpretations. On one level, it can be understood as a study in observation – an exercise in accurately representing natural forms. The plant’s upward growth suggests vitality and resilience, while its containment within the pot implies dependence and limitation.
Theres a quiet stillness to the work; the lack of surrounding detail isolates the subject, emphasizing its inherent qualities. This isolation might be interpreted as symbolic of introspection or contemplation. The choice of terracotta, a material often associated with domesticity and tradition, could further contribute to this sense of groundedness and familiarity.
The drawing’s small scale and intimate perspective invite close scrutiny, encouraging the viewer to appreciate the subtle nuances of form and color. It is an exercise in restraint; the artist avoids elaborate detail or dramatic composition, instead focusing on a quiet beauty found within the ordinary.