José Tapiró y Baró (1836–1913) was a master of Spanish Orientalism and one of the most distinguished watercolorists of the 19th century. Born in Reus, Spain, he was a lifelong friend and colleague of Mariano Fortuny, with whom he studied at the prestigious Escola de la Llotja in Barcelona and later in Rome. However, Tapiró’s true artistic soul was found in Tangier, Morocco, where he lived for over thirty years. Under the patronage of international collectors captivated by his "unfiltered" view of North Africa, he moved away from the romanticized fantasies of his peers to embrace a style of Ethnographic Realism. He is most famous for his "Moroccan Portraits," such as A Tangerian Beauty and The Holy Man, which are renowned for their staggering detail. His work is characterized by the incredible rendering of complex patterns in silk caftans, the texture of weathered skin, and the glint of tribal jewelry. Translating a Tapiró piece into cross stitch is a breathtaking journey through color and geometry; his work provides a rich tapestry of vibrant dyes and intricate Moorish designs, allowing you to stitch a soulful and culturally authentic masterpiece.