click to enlarge
Image 1905-1908Madrid-08-011 
Illustration No. 1     
Illustrator José Jiménez Aranda 
Engraver  
Lithographer  
Title Caption .... esténme todos atentos, que la novela comienza desta manera: 
Title Supplied  
Part Part I, Madrid 1605  
Chapter Chapter 32 
Subject 32.4 The innkeeper’s books
 
Illustration Type Chapter illustration
 
Technique Process / Photomechanical technique
 
Color Black and white 
Volume IV LÁMINAS (on spine TOMO IV TEXTO by error) 
Page Number CAP. XXXII. - 11. 
Image Dimension 155 x 220 
Page Dimension 238 x 312 
Commentary ".... well then, attend to me everyone, for the novel begins thus:".
The priest begins to read the novel of "El Curioso Impertinente"; around him, Sancho, Dorotea, the barber, Cardenio and the innkeeper's wife listening.
Remarkable figures, with good gestures.
Great interest in representing real Spanish characters and accurate period clothes, setting and details.
Jiménez Aranda's drawing skill is masterly; remarkable use of light and shadow with impressionist effects. 
Notes 1 – Reproduction of the original sketch (Chinese ink and gouache white). Jiménez Aranda meant to paint a more-finished drawing after this sketch using natural sceneries and real models, but he died before completing the project.