#30739 Higinio Mallebrera

Here we see a portrait of a man rendered in a style characterized by flattened perspective and bold color choices. The subject is positioned centrally against a backdrop that suggests an outdoor setting, though its representation is highly stylized rather than realistic.
The figure himself is formally attired in a light-colored suit with a blue shirt and tie. He holds what appears to be a book or document in his left hand, and a pen rests diagonally across his body, suggesting a profession involving writing or scholarship. His expression is serious, almost stern, contributing to an overall impression of authority and perhaps intellectual gravitas. The man’s hair is white, hinting at age and experience.
The background is composed of a reddish-brown ground plane punctuated by stylized trees and foliage on either side. A band of blue delineates the horizon line, above which are simplified representations of distant vegetation. These elements contribute to a sense of enclosure while also suggesting an expansive environment. The artist has employed a textured surface, possibly achieved through layering paint or incorporating other materials, adding visual interest and depth to the composition. Small floral motifs appear at the bottom corners, providing a touch of decorative detail that contrasts with the formality of the central figure.
The painting’s aesthetic leans towards folk art or naive style, prioritizing symbolic representation over precise realism. The limited color palette and simplified forms create a sense of immediacy and directness. The composition feels deliberate, aiming to convey not just a likeness but also an impression of character and status. The date 1976 is inscribed in the lower right corner, providing a temporal anchor for the work.