JOSÉ MONGRELL TORRENT (Valencia, 1870 - Barcelona, 1937). "Sorolla with a gypsy woman". Oil on canvas. Signed and dedicated to Joaquín Sorolla in the lower right corner. Certified by Bernardino de Pantorba, 1979. Measurements: 89 x 98 cm; 118 x 126 cm (frame). Mongrell was a key painter of impressionism, with an important debt to his master and friend Joaquín Sorolla, but with a strong and personal personality which is evident in this imposing canvas. The subject is already singular: Sorolla finds himself in a gypsy camp in front of a woman who seems to be reading his hand. A silent dialogue is established between the two through the exchange of glances. Sorolla lowers his head in a reflective attitude, perhaps after hearing the admonishing words of the gypsy woman. Her weathered face, wrapped in a handkerchief, is hardened but at the same time kindly. Mongrell is a true master at capturing the psychology of his characters: here, the silent dialogue captures us through the mysterious magnetism of the expressions, which always preserve an impenetrable dignity. Mongrell goes beyond genres, for here he mixes social themes with costumbrismo and homage to his mentor friend. The scene is dominated by a warm palette reflecting the Mediterranean sun: an intense cerulean blue is reflected in the variety of ochres, browns and reddish tones contrasted, though toned and balanced, with the luminous whites and yellows of the costumes.