Lot 71: RAIMUNDO DE MADRAZO Y GARRETA

RAIMUNDO DE MADRAZO Y GARRETA SPANISH 1841 - 1920 SUS ZAPATOS NUEVOS (HER NEW SHOES) signed R. Madrazo lower right oil on canvas 63 by 52cm., 24¾ by 20½in.

Acquired by the family of the present owner in the 1950s

The sitter in the present work was Madrazo's favourite muse and model Aline Masson. Aline is shown in the throes of trying on a pair of new silk slippers. Having dispensed with her silk cloak and richly decorated bonnet, she perches on an ornate Rococo chair and leans forward to place the slipper on her foot.

This moment depicted allows Madrazo the opportunity to display off his talent for capturing the model's natural beauty, and his skill at painting such a variety of contrasting textures - the silks and satins of Aline's bodice and outer garments, the lace of her skirt and the gilt swirls of the furniture.