The Hand Sculpture

The Hand (Spanish: La mano) is a notable bronze sculpture by the Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero, exhibited in Madrid, Spain since 1994. Known for its plump form—Botero's signature style—this 500-kilogram sculpture is a fascinating piece that has captured public interest for decades.

Background and Creation

Fernando Botero

Fernando Botero, a Colombian sculptor and painter, has garnered global recognition for his artistic style, characterized by exaggerated proportions and rounded forms. His work often delves into themes of beauty, identity, and cultural symbolism.

Features of The Hand

The Hand is a bronze sculpture weighing 500 kilograms and features a plump, rounded form—a distinctive trademark of Botero. Its matte finish makes it particularly well-suited for outdoor display, ensuring its longevity as a piece of public art.

The 1994 Exhibition and Acquisition by Telefónica

The sculpture was part of an exhibition in 1994 that showcased 21 of Botero's works. Although Woman with Mirror was the sculpture that garnered the most votes in a public survey and was thus gifted to the city, The Hand was bought by Telefónica in October 1994. The acquisition cost was 70 million Spanish pesetas, equivalent to around €420,000. Fernando López Amor, Madrid's treasurer at the time, encouraged corporations to purchase artworks from the exhibit to enrich the city's public art scene.

Installation and Location

Telefónica loaned The Hand to the city of Madrid, and it was installed on Paseo de la Castellana in April 1995. An interesting observation made by El País, a Spanish newspaper, noted that the sculpture's position seemed to point toward the Equestrian statue of Francisco Franco that stood at the time in Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz.

Other Botero Sculptures in Madrid

The Hand was not the only Botero piece to grace Madrid's public spaces. Alongside it, Woman with Mirror was installed on Calle de Génova, and Raptio of Europa found its home at Madrid–Barajas Airport.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

The Hand, with its plump form and significant scale, serves as a unique representation of Botero's artistic expression. Beyond its artistic merits, the sculpture has also become an emblematic feature of Madrid's public art scene, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural landscape.

Reception and Legacy

The sculpture has been met with both critical and public acclaim, becoming a significant landmark in Madrid's cultural tapestry. Its installation, along with other Botero pieces, reflects Madrid's commitment to enriching its public spaces with high-quality art.

The Hand by Fernando Botero is more than just a sculpture; it is a symbol of the artistic vitality that defines Madrid. Its acquisition by Telefónica and subsequent installation on Paseo de la Castellana reflect the city's dedication to public art and its openness to global artistic influences. For residents and visitors alike, The Hand remains a compelling feature of Madrid's artistic landscape, inviting all to ponder its meaning and appreciate its form.