They still say that fish is expensive Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida (1863-1923)

The composition presents a scene steeped in muted tones and palpable tension, divided into two distinct yet interconnected spaces. On the left, we observe a cramped interior dominated by a large, earthenware vessel – likely intended for cooking or storage – and a rough-hewn wooden table. A small pile of fish rests on this table, appearing meager and insufficient. Light streams in from an unseen source, illuminating dust motes suspended in the air and highlighting the worn texture of the walls. The overall impression is one of scarcity and confinement.
To the right, the space expands slightly, revealing a man and a child engaged in what appears to be a hushed conversation. The man’s posture conveys weariness and concern; his gaze is directed downwards towards the child, whose face remains largely obscured. He wears simple, patched clothing, indicative of poverty. The childs body language suggests vulnerability and perhaps apprehension. A second figure, presumably an older woman or another child, stands further back in the space, partially hidden by a hanging cloth or curtain. This individual’s expression is difficult to discern, adding to the overall sense of mystery and unease.
The artist employed a loose brushstroke throughout, contributing to the paintings raw and immediate feel. The color palette is restricted primarily to browns, ochres, and grays, reinforcing the somber mood. The limited use of brighter colors draws attention to specific details – the gleam on the fish scales, the highlights on the earthenware vessel – and subtly emphasizes their significance within the narrative.
Subtly embedded in this depiction are themes of economic hardship and familial responsibility. The small quantity of fish suggests a struggle for sustenance, while the interaction between the man and child implies a discussion about difficult circumstances or perhaps an explanation regarding limited resources. The obscured faces contribute to a sense of universality; these could be any family facing adversity. The composition’s division into two spaces might symbolize the separation between hope (represented by the light on the left) and despair (the shadowed figures on the right), or alternatively, it may represent the duality of poverty – the constant struggle for survival alongside the enduring bonds of familial love. Ultimately, the painting evokes a sense of quiet desperation and resilience in the face of adversity.