#10968 Rafael Zabaleta

The drawing presents a view through a doorway into what appears to be a museum or gallery space. The perspective is skewed, creating a sense of immediacy and perhaps disorientation. A large classical sculpture stands prominently on the left side of the frame, partially obscuring the view beyond. Its drapery is rendered with loose, expressive brushstrokes, suggesting movement and volume rather than precise detail.
Beyond the doorway, several more sculptures are visible, arranged along what seems to be a long corridor or hall. These figures are less distinct, their forms blending into the background, which is bathed in warm, diffused light. The artist has used a limited palette of browns, yellows, and creams, punctuated by touches of blue that define the architectural elements and add depth to the scene.
A sign above the doorway reads Rebollo Madrid, indicating the location or perhaps the name of an exhibition. This textual element introduces a layer of specificity while simultaneously distancing the viewer from the depicted space. It suggests a particular time and place, yet the overall impression remains somewhat ambiguous.
The composition seems to explore themes of observation and representation. The presence of the sculptures – copies of classical works – implies a dialogue with art history and tradition. The act of looking itself is emphasized by the skewed perspective and the placement of the viewer within the doorway, suggesting an intermediary position between the observer and the observed.
The drawing’s loose style and muted colors contribute to a sense of quiet contemplation. It avoids grand gestures or dramatic narratives, instead focusing on the subtle nuances of light, form, and space. The overall effect is one of understated elegance and intellectual curiosity.