Provenance: Private collection from titled lady, a large London home, deceased estate. This picture has been in storage for the last 20 years.

ABOUT THE WORK

Known for his alluring landscapes and masterful studies, Vicente Manansala subverts his usual Pronkstilleven style in order to produce an innovative work that embodies the visual arts’ inherent characteristic of innovation. By staying true to his Modernist inclinations, Manansala has redefined his aesthetic through this watercolor on paper masterpiece. Black, grey, green, and yellow figures populate the canvas creating a stark contrast between his subjects and his background. Upon closer inspection, one can see that his elements form a school of fish; with his approach giving the impression of light bouncing off their scales in a sort of prismatic manner. Manansala’s style and choice of subject matter undoubtedly reflects the spirit of Modernism that redefined what can and could be considered works of art. (J.D.)