Ramon Casas and Pere Romeu on a Tandem

The painting "Ramon Casas and Pere Romeu on a Tandem" by Ramon Casas is displayed at the National Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona. Created in 1897, this artwork was originally intended for the interior of Els Quatre Gats, a bar that played a pivotal role in the Modernisme art movement. The painting depicts Casas and Pere Romeu riding a tandem bicycle against the backdrop of the Barcelona skyline. Casas, renowned for his talents in poster design and illustration, portrays himself in profile with a pipe, while Romeu gazes directly at the viewer. The painting’s original inscription emphasized the idea of breaking with tradition to embrace progress, encapsulating the spirit of Els Quatre Gats.

Ramon Casas was a celebrated Catalan artist, famous for his portraits of the elite in both Barcelona and Paris, as well as his depictions of various social scenes. His work profoundly influenced the Modernisme movement, particularly through his iconic posters and postcards. Els Quatre Gats, where this painting was first exhibited, was a crucial venue for Modernisme, hosting social gatherings and art exhibitions, including some of Pablo Picasso's early shows.

Modernisme, known as "art nouveau" in Catalonia, was a cultural movement aimed at establishing a distinct Catalan national identity. Active from 1888 to 1911, this movement encompassed various art forms, with Barcelona at its core. Renowned figures like Antoni Gaudí made significant contributions to its architectural style, while the movement also advanced sculpture, poetry, theater, and painting.