Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida (Spanish, 1863-1923)

The present work probably dates from about 1907 and is a fine example of Joaquin Sorolla's much loved Valencian beach scenes. Both rare and unusual, this work is painted on a grey base to reflect the clear winter light, in contrast to his usual red or brown.

The historian and critic Max Nordau said: "Sorolla is one of the glories of Valencia...He is one of the glories of modern Spain. He walks on the great triumphal road that leads to the summits of contemporary art and universal fame...Sorolla belongs to the breed of born painters, or artists who are painters by the grace of God."

This lot is accompanied by a photostat of a letter from Francisco Pons Sorolla y Arnau dated 2 January, 1980, in which he dates this work circa 1905-1910.

We are grateful to Blanca Pons-Sorolla who has examined this work and will include it in her forthcoming revised catalogue raisonne.