Vicente Palmaroli González (5 September 1834 – 25 January 1896) was a distinguished Spanish portrait and genre painter.

Born in Zarzalejo, he was the son of Gaetano Palmaroli, an Italian painter and lithographer who became his first mentor.

Palmaroli’s career was defined by his exceptional talent in both portrait and genre painting. He gained international acclaim between 1872 and 1884 for his tableautin works, often portraying the elegant leisure activities of aristocrats from the ancien régime.

His style was strongly influenced by the renowned Fortuny, particularly after Palmaroli relocated to Paris following political upheaval in Spain.

One of his most notable pieces is Al escondite (Hide and Seek), an oil painting on panel that reflects his précieux style. The work highlights his mastery in drawing and colour, incorporating architectural elements inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. Palmaroli’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the thin, almost translucent layers of paint, which allow the preparatory sketch to remain visible.

His paintings were highly prized on the international art market, particularly by American collectors. Palmaroli maintained relationships with prominent art agents such as Samuel P. Avery and George A. Lucas, supplying works to Goupil’s, a leading art dealership. His Alhambra-themed works, along with other fashionable subjects, were sought after by renowned New York collections.

Throughout his career, Palmaroli held various esteemed positions. Following his father’s death in 1853, he assumed his father’s role at the royal art collections. His artistic legacy endures, particularly through his prints, which are admired for their romantic and dramatic portrayal of historical scenes and landscapes.

Vincent Palmaroli (Spanish, 1834 – 1896)

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