Anecdote
In the late 19th century a large group of Catalan artists practised an anecdotal modality of painting, excellently executed though hardly groundbreaking. The works they produced represent an objective reality, pleasant and usually cosmopolitan, in which a motif is described in such minute detail that scarce concessions are made to the subjectivity of the artist and little is left to the imagination of the beholder. Francesc Masriera, Romà Ribera and Francesc Miralles, followers of the French tradition, are three of the most outstanding painters in this group. These artists were among those who had won most awards at the official exhibitions organised by Barcelona City Council, and who enjoyed wider public and critical acclaim. In the sphere of sculpture a number of artists also chose to grant priority to anecdote, which was usually treated with utmost detail.
