This circa 1930 stencil print, La partie de pelote basque by Jacques Le Tanneur, vividly captures the spirit of the Basque Country through its depiction of a traditional pelota match. With a keen eye for detail and a refined sense of composition, Le Tanneur brings to life the excitement and cultural significance of this emblematic sport, set within the charming backdrop of a Basque village.
The scene is carefully structured, with spectators and players dynamically arranged around the fronton, the characteristic wall used in Basque pelota. The artist’s use of clean lines and flat color planes, reminiscent of early 20th-century decorative illustration, enhances the clarity and movement of the composition. The architecture of the Basque houses, with their red and white timbered façades, provides an authentic setting, while the presence of onlookers, dressed in traditional berets and scarves, immerses the viewer in the local ambiance.
Le Tanneur’s work is a testament to the strong regional identity of the Basque Country, celebrating its customs and community life. The game of pelota, more than just a sport, is an expression of Basque heritage, bringing together players and spectators in a shared cultural moment. Through his precise yet expressive technique, the artist captures both the dynamism of the match and the relaxed camaraderie of the village gathering.
La partie de pelote basque stands as a striking representation of the Basque spirit, balancing movement and tradition in a visually harmonious and historically rich composition.
Original stencil
Sport - Basque Country
Very good state
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