Artwork
La siesta (Estanco nacional)
La siesta (Estanco nacional) is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Miguel Zaragoza. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1892, this oil on canvas by Miguel Zaragoza portrays an interior scene of a modest wooden hut. Three figures—two adults and a child—are shown in a state of rest, while a rooster and several chickens occupy the space outside the doorway. A sign above the entrance bears the words “Estanco Nacional,” identifying the location.
Subject & Meaning
The composition captures a moment of everyday tranquility, emphasizing the simple domestic life of a rural household. The reclining man, the sleeping woman, and the attentive child suggest a familial bond, while the presence of the birds hints at a connection to agrarian routines and the surrounding environment.
Technique & Style
Zaragoza employs a contrast of deep shadows and striking illumination to give the scene a tangible presence. Thick applications of paint in areas such as the wooden walls and clothing create a textured surface, while finer brushwork renders details like the bamboo panels and ceramic jars, enhancing the realism of the setting.
History & Provenance
Since its completion, the work has been part of the collection at Madrid’s Museo del Prado. The painting remains catalogued under the reference Q59972252, documenting its acquisition and continued display within the museum’s holdings of 19th‑century Spanish art.
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