Rooster of Empordà Original Catalan Folk Oil Painting

A Vivid Tribute to Catalan Rural Life

“Rooster of Empordà” is an original oil painting from the 1930s, capturing the proud stance and distinctive plumage of a rare Empordanesa rooster from northeastern Spain. Painted in a folk-naïve style on board, this expressive work channels the rustic beauty and deep-rooted traditions of Catalan farm life.

At the center is Rubio, a golden-feathered sentinel of the countryside, painted with presence, warmth, and unmistakable character.

Visual Impact & Artistic Technique

Rubio stands alert against a lush, stylized background of swirling green foliage. His golden back and creamy-white underfeathers glow against tones of emerald, jade, and sky-blue. A vivid red comb, confident posture, and strong ivory legs create bold contrast, drawing the eye immediately.

Brushwork is spirited and tactile. The artist employs thick, energetic strokes for the rooster’s plumage, while the background flows in curved, dreamlike motions. The result is a composition that feels as much felt as it is seen — rich in emotion, movement, and texture.

Cultural Significance

This painting celebrates the Blonde (Blat) variety of the Empordanesa breed, once prized on Catalan farms for their productivity and beauty. Native to the Empordà region, these birds are now symbols of regional pride and sustainable agricultural heritage.

In naming the subject Rubio and portraying him so vividly, the artist has preserved more than an animal — they’ve honored a way of life.

Frame

The artwork is set in its original 1930s handcrafted wooden frame, featuring carved rosettes, notched edges, and a dark stained finish. The frame complements the rustic subject matter and adds age-worn charm.

Dimensions: 95 cm high x 74 cm wide x 3.5 cm deep

Medium: Oil on board

Signature: Unsigned, as is typical for rural folk pieces of the era

Provenance

Originally part of a private Catalan collection, the painting later entered the holdings of a respected UK antiques and fine art dealer. It has since been catalogued by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD and exhibited at the Middle Shire Museum, noted for its cultural relevance and expressive brushwork.

Condition

Painting surface: Stable with strong coloration. Exhibits foxing, minor craquelure, isolated paint loss, and some small white marks. A light professional clean would enhance it further.

Frame: Shows expected wear, including age-related chips and a historic water stain to the back. Structurally sound with a rich aged patina.

Key Features

Authentic 1930s Catalan folk art

Rare heritage breed subject with cultural relevance

Expressive composition with bold, painterly technique

Original period frame with hand-carved detail

Museum-exhibited and professionally catalogued

Ideal for collectors of rural European art, folk traditions, or heritage interiors

Shipping

Secure worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured.

Final Note

“Rooster of Empordà” is more than a decorative piece — it’s a narrative in paint. A proud bird, a rare breed, a moment of rural heritage preserved on canvas and wood.

Available now through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Have questions? We’re happy to assist.

Delivery shipping information

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