"This is one of the first works that Santiago Rusiñol (Barcelona, 1861- Aranjuez, 1931) painted in Paris. Rusiñol represents a somber courtyard of the city center. The sense of sadness and despair that emanates from the place is accentuated by the woman in mourning that appears in the background and to whom the gaze of the spectator unavoidably turns.
When the painting was exhibited in Paris, it received praises – although they were brief- by the critics. The most extensive and enthusiast comment was made by Miquel Utrillo, then art critic of “La Vanguardia” newspaper.
As he affirmed that the courtyard could be one of a pawnshop the work received this title."