Romantic Novel 1894

Santiago Rusiñol created this painting, Romantic Novel, using oil paints on canvas. Here, the material qualities of oil paint lend themselves well to the soft, diffused light of the interior, and to the artist's delicate handling of tone. The pigments were likely ground by hand, or by studio assistants, reflecting the labour-intensive processes involved in art production at this time. But consider also how the subject of the painting relates to production: the very act of reading, a relatively new phenomenon in the modern era, depends on paper, printing, and bookbinding. As we reflect on this scene of quiet contemplation, we are drawn to the relationship between the artwork and the broader social context of its time. The painting serves as a reminder of the labor, materials, and cultural shifts that shape not only artistic creation but also our everyday experiences. By acknowledging the materials and social context, we gain a deeper understanding of its significance, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and the wider world.