Title Page with Bullfighters and a Bull’s Hide Antonio Carnicero (1748-1814)

The composition presents a scene centered around what appears to be a post-bullfight gathering. A large banner dominates the visual field, its text proclaiming Coleccion de las Principales Suertes de una Corrida de Toros (Collection of the Principal Events of a Bullfight), and identifying the artist as Luis Fernandez Noseset. The banner’s ornate gold fringe draws immediate attention, framing the scene with an air of formality and documentation.
Several figures populate the foreground. A matador, clad in traditional red garments, stands prominently, holding what seems to be a cape or cloth. His posture suggests a moment of reflection or perhaps a gesture towards the audience. To his left, another man, dressed in darker attire, sits on a low wall, seemingly observing the scene with an air of detached amusement. A third figure, partially obscured by a table laden with objects including what appears to be a bull’s hide and bottles, leans forward, engaged in conversation or observation. A small dog is positioned near his feet, adding a touch of domesticity to the otherwise dramatic setting.
The background reveals a glimpse of an urban environment – a building with visible windows and a carriage parked nearby. This suggests that the event took place within or adjacent to a town or city. The foliage framing the scene contributes to a sense of enclosure while also softening the harshness of the architectural elements.
Subtleties in the depiction hint at layers of meaning beyond the straightforward portrayal of a bullfight aftermath. The banner’s presence establishes this as an official record, elevating the event from mere spectacle to something worthy of preservation and study. The varying postures and expressions of the figures suggest different perspectives on the proceedings – pride, amusement, contemplation. The inclusion of the dog introduces a note of normalcy amidst the ritualized violence, potentially commenting on the human tendency to compartmentalize brutality within cultural traditions. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed observation, inviting viewers to consider not only the event itself but also the social and cultural context that surrounds it.