Miguel Covarrubias (1904-1957), El Mercado, Gouache and watercolor on paper, Image/Sheet: 12.875 H x 10 W ,
Provenance : The Artist
The Collection of Frederick W. Davis, acquired from the above
Private Collection, Southern California, by descent from the above
Exhibited :
Literature :
Notes : José Miguel Covarrubias Duclaud, known as Miguel Covarrubias, was a Mexican artist born on November 22, 1904, in Mexico City. He began his artistic journey at 14, contributing caricatures and illustrations to Mexico's Ministry of Public Education and Communications.
At 19, armed with talent and a grant, Covarrubias moved to New York City, quickly becoming a premier caricaturist for Vanity Fair. His artistic talents extended to designing for theater productions, including Caroline Dudley Reagan's La Revue Negre.
Covarrubias created monumental murals, notably the Pageant of the Pacific for the Golden Gate International Exposition. These murals became cultural treasures, captivating audiences with vibrant depictions of cultures and landscapes.
His life intertwined with Rosa Rolando, leading to adventures across continents and friendships with icons like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. His caricatures graced esteemed publications and theater productions, earning him acclaim and influencing fellow artists. Their exploration led to Bali, resulting in a book contributing to the 1930s Bali craze in New York. Returning to Mexico City, their home became a hub for global visitors and creative exchange.
Beyond art, Covarrubias taught and contributed to the preservation of Mexican dance. His life ended in 1957, leaving a lasting impact through his artwork and analysis of pre-Columbian art, notably the Olmec civilization, reshaping perceptions of Mesoamerican cultures. Through his art, writings, and anthropological studies, Covarrubias shared an enduring appreciation for diverse cultures, leaving an indelible imprint on art and anthropology.
Condition_report : Overall good condition. The sheet with deckled edges. The lower left edge is slightly trimmed unevenly. Pale backboard staining and occasional specks of foxing on the verso of the sheet, attendant with previous backboards used. The verso of the sheet with a small area of old glue residue along the lower right edge and two small pieces of old brown hinging tape at the upper left and right corners. The sheet is loose, not matted.Unframed
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