Rubio the Empordanesa Rooster | Original Folk Art Oil Painting c.1930s





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Description


Rubio the Empordanesa Rooster | Original Folk Art Oil Painting c.1930s | Rustic Catalan Charm

Subject & Medium:
Meet Rubio — a majestic Empordanesa rooster immortalized in this vibrant and expressive original oil painting from the Catalan region during the 1930s. Title "Rubio the Catalan Empordanesa Rooster". A true character, Rubio is portrayed with presence and pride, capturing the essence of a breed deeply rooted in Catalonia’s rural history.

Executed in oil on board, this unsigned folk piece is both personal and historic — a timeless tribute to the rare and rustic beauty of this beloved bird.

Composition & Technique:
Set against a lush, whimsical backdrop of stylized green foliage, Rubio stands tall and alert, his golden plumage glowing against tones of emerald, jade, and sky-teal. His vivid red comb, strong ivory legs, and proud posture create a bold, visual contrast that immediately draws the eye.

Brushstrokes are energetic and textured — the feathers of Rubio are rendered with thick, gestural swipes, while the background swirls softly in dreamlike curves. This folk-naïve style blends rustic storytelling with painterly spontaneity, creating a piece that feels both soulful and alive.

About Rubio – The Empordanesa Rooster:
Rubio represents the Blonde (Blat) variety of the rare Empordanesa breed, native to the Empordà region of northeastern Spain. With creamy-white underfeathers and a warm golden back, he is a striking example of a breed once prized on Catalan farms for its eggs, flavor, and beauty.

The Empordanesa is now a symbol of regional identity and sustainable heritage farming. By naming and painting Rubio, the artist has lovingly captured not just a bird — but a legacy.

Signed:
Unsigned, as is typical for rustic folk paintings of the period — allowing Rubio and the composition to speak for themselves.

Frame:
This treasure comes in its original handmade 1930s folk frame, dark-stained with carved rosettes and notched detailing. The frame is solid, textured, and full of vintage charm — a true extension of the work’s character.

Frame Dimensions: 95 cm high x 74 cm wide x 3.5 cm deep
A substantial piece that makes an immediate visual impact on any wall.

Provenance:
Originally from a private Catalonian collection, this painting later became part of a Northern antiques & fine art dealer’s holdings, appreciated for its rarity and regional significance. It was subsequently curated and catalogued by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, experts in European heritage art. In a testament to Rubio’s enduring charm, the piece was proudly exhibited at the renowned middle shire Museum, where it stood out for its emotive brushwork, distinctive subject, and cultural depth.

Why You’ll Love Rubio:
A named subject with personality and legacy
Authentic 1930s folk art with Catalan roots
Rich, emotive colours and bold technique
Original handcrafted frame with folk detail
Ideal for heritage interiors, farmhouse kitchens, or eclectic gallery walls
Rubio isn’t just a rooster — he’s a vivid piece of cultural storytelling.

Condition:
Overall acceptable condition. The painting surface is stable with strong colour and no visible flaking. Having various foxing stains & some craquelure also some minor paint loss & small white paint stains in areas. Would benefit with having the surface professioanlly cleaned. The frame has general wear and some chips with a rich patina consistent with its old age, also historic water damage on the board back.



Reserve: $5,400.00

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.