The portraits of the great master Leopoldo Romañach (1862-1951) always reveal interesting angles of his models. In this portrait of a young woman named Rita, one can glimpse the singular disposition of the woman towards reading. Nothing disturbs her: she dives herself in her book without holding anything back.

The calm beauty of the whole, the harmony of the form, highlights the gloomy use of color. There’s definitely a celebration of life here, although earthy hues tend to recreate less optimistic environments.

It’s just enough to appreciate the calmness and evident satisfaction with which this woman reads to dissipate any concern: this is a painting about calm happiness, about the fullness of pleasure. One looks at this woman and shares an energy. The influence of literature, which transcends eras and fashions.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff