The painting "Vendedor De Sandías" by Mexican artist José María Obregón, painted in 1858, is one of his earlier works after enrolling in the Academy of San Carlos in 1852, where he developed his artistic practice for sixteen-years, where he received the influence of Pelegrín Clavé. His painting is characterized not only by his high quality technique, but by the relation of his subjects with different scenarios situated in his memories and the possible future. Obregón's artistic practice can be interpreted as the middle point between the traditional academic tradition of arts and an emergent Mexican sensibility, which had been on the rise since the Restoration of the Republic in 1867.
The painting depicts a vendor of watermelons on the left side of the painting, holding a knife and a watermelon with both hands, offering his merchandise to two interested pedestrians. A bald man of advance age can be found in the center of the painting, dressed in fully black elegant clothing, holding a strange tool towards his face, while looking down at the watermelons in front of his feet, the vendor's eyes are looking at him intensely, waiting for his reaction in order to make him purchase his products. The second man, an injured soldier can be found on the left side of the painting, he is supported by two crutches as he seems to have lost his left leg on the war. In addition, his uniform seems to belong to the lowest class of soldiers, and the action of his hand trying to reach a watermelon from the floor, creates a powerful representation of the reality the country was living after the war.
The painting VENDEDOR DE SANDÍAS by JOSÉ MARIÁ OBREGÓN is not just a piece of art but an entire scene that speaks to people a lot more than words can. In my opinion the painting depicts the dignity of labour as the watermelon seller is shown as a hardworking man who is trying to sell his watermelons and is hopeful that the watermelons will be purchased. The painting also represents everyday Mexican life since watermelon is a common fruit in Mexico and it also shows the simplicity of life. The painting doesn't fail to bring realism into the picture as Obregón uses realistic details like fruits and marketplace allowing the viewers to connect with the scene. Abundance and prosperity is also shown in the painting with the help of bright,fresh watermelons which symbolizes nature's fertility amd the rich soil of the land. So in conclusion Obregón has not just created an artwork that would make people appreciate his painting skills but also understand alot through a simple painting.
