Authentication
of Sorolla's
Signature

Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida (1863-1923) signed his many masterpieces in a variety of ways. His signature was not as small and discreet as some artists who choose to sign their paintings with a monogram or initials. Sorolla wrote his name in large cursive letters, sometimes adding the date or additional information. The painter did not write his entire name. He most commonly chose the abbreviation "J. Sorolla." In the most iconic version of his signature "J. Sorolla" is underlined. Many variations can be found in which Sorolla signed "Sorolla y Bastida," "J. Sorolla y Bastida," or simply "Joaquín."

Sorolla usually signed in black paint or a dark color that did not compete with the composition. His painted signature looked much like a penned signature, written in a very natural freehand style.