Pasadizo Romano 

José Garnelo painted Pasadizo Romano with oil on panel. The rapid execution suggests that this was done *en plein air*, in the open air, which was common practice for late 19th century painters seeking authenticity and immediacy in their work. Look closely, and you can see the artist’s quick brushstrokes, especially in the rendering of the damp street. The texture varies from thick impasto to thin washes, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. The limited color palette also contributes to the painting’s moody and contemplative feel. While seemingly straightforward, the act of painting *en plein air* had social implications. It required artists to transport their materials and set up their easels in public spaces, making art accessible to a broader audience and blurring the lines between the studio and everyday life. The very directness of the method also challenged academic traditions of the time. By emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context, we can understand how this approach to painting questioned established hierarchies in the art world.