Woman with Mirror (Spanish: Mujer con espejo) is a prominent bronze sculpture located in Madrid, Spain. Created in 1987 by Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero, the sculpture has become an iconic landmark in the city. Weighing in at 1,000 kilograms (approximately 2,200 pounds), the sculpture features a nude woman with a voluptuous figure lying on her front—a signature style of the artist.
Background and Creation
Fernando Botero
Fernando Botero is a Colombian sculptor and painter renowned for his unique style of exaggerated proportions and rounded figures. His work often explores the themes of beauty, identity, and cultural heritage. Woman with Mirror is a quintessential example of Botero's distinct artistic vision.
Features of the Sculpture
The sculpture is made of bronze and weighs a hefty 1,000 kilograms. It portrays a nude woman with a large figure, lying on her front and holding a mirror. The voluptuousness of the figure is a characteristic trademark of Botero's work, often interpreted as a celebration of the human form.
The 1994 Exhibition and Public Voting
In May 1994, an exhibition featuring Botero's works was launched in Madrid. By September of the same year, the exhibition had attracted an impressive two million visitors. During this period, a survey was conducted by the exhibition's sponsor, Caja Madrid, to determine which sculpture would be donated for public display in the city. Woman with Mirror emerged as the most voted piece, sealing its place as a public art installation in Madrid.
Installation and Location
After being gifted to the city, Woman with Mirror was installed on Calle de Génova, near the entrance to Plaza de Colón. This strategic location has made the sculpture easily accessible and visible to both locals and tourists, further solidifying its status as an iconic landmark.
Other Botero Sculptures in Madrid
By April 1995, two more of Botero's works were added to Madrid's public art collection. These include The Hand, which was purchased by Telefónica, and Raptio of Europa, located at Madrid–Barajas Airport.
Cultural and Artistic Significance
Woman with Mirror not only serves as a showcase of Botero's artistic prowess but also as a symbol of Madrid's commitment to public art and cultural enrichment. Its voluptuous form challenges conventional standards of beauty and invites viewers to contemplate the diversity of the human body.
Reception and Legacy
The sculpture has been met with critical acclaim and public appreciation, becoming one of the most recognizable landmarks in Madrid. It also marked a significant moment in the city's art scene, reflecting a growing interest in Latin American artists and their contributions to global art.
Woman with Mirror stands as a monumental piece of public art in Madrid, capturing both the artistic essence of Fernando Botero and the cultural vibrancy of the city. Its overwhelming popularity during the 1994 exhibition and subsequent installation on Calle de Génova attests to its enduring appeal. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual observer, this iconic sculpture offers a compelling gaze into the world of public art and the rich tapestry of human experience it represents.
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