Elena and Maria with Old-fashioned Valencian Costumes

Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida, a Spanish painter, was born on this day in 1863. Sorolla excelled in painting portraits, landscapes, and monumental works of social and historical themes. His works are truly amazing! Just look at what we have for you today.

Do you know what a gropa is?  It is a pair of individuals dressed in the traditional attire of the Valencian region, riding a magnificently adorned horse. This imagery evokes the festive and ancestral costumes of Valencian farmers and is one of the most iconic representations of Valencian identity and folklore.

Emerging in the late 19th century as a homage to the golden age of Valencia's Huerta (fertile farming region) gropas, quickly became a central element of festivities and celebrations in Valencia. Their popularity extended to photography and the arts, as seen in this splendid painting by Joaquín Sorolla. In this work, Sorolla transforms an intimate family portrait into a beautiful tribute to his homeland, showcasing his masterful use of light and color, which brought him great acclaim during and after his lifetime.

In this painting, Sorolla's daughters, Elena and Maria, pose atop an ornamented horse in traditional Valencian attire. Elena, the younger daughter, takes on a masculine role, sitting astride at the front with legs apart, holding the reins in her left hand while her right rests on her waist. She wears the traditional men’s costume of Valencia, inspired by the affluent fashion of the 18th century.

Beautiful, isn't it?

P.S. Animals have been a source of inspiration for artists from the beginning of human history. In this postcard set you will find some of the most extraordinary depictions of them!  :) 

P.P.S. Sorolla was not only a master of portraying Valencian people and culture but also beautiful landscapes, especially the coast. Take a look at the luminous art of Joaquín Sorolla!