A lost symbol of the Penedès
The disappearance of a frieze that represented the essence of the Penedès has left the community in a state of shock. Located in the Mútua Penedès, this artistic element was the work of Jaume Mercader-Miret, a renowned local artist who embodied in embossed metal various aspects of the region, such as the vineyard, the Berà arch and the rich artisanal tradition.
Circumstances of the event
The frieze went missing in late July, and authorities suspect it was stolen. Located above the door of the building at number 6 of Avinguda Tarragona, this frieze had suffered the passage of time, accumulating dirt and dust, but its artistic and cultural value was undeniable.
An artist with a remarkable legacy
Jaume Mercader-Miret, born in Vilafranca in 1914, studied in Sant Ramon before moving to Barcelona, where he learned the trade of silversmith. His work, which ranges from religious sculptures to stained glass, was highly valued, and his work at Mútua Penedès is considered one of his most important. In addition, his facet as a writer contributed to the cultural heritage of the city.
A recovery mural
After the creation of the frieze, in 1968, Mercader-Miret received a new order from the director of the Mútua, Tomàs Berdier, to create a mural entitled ‘Allegory of recovery’. This mural, one of the largest in his repertoire, is currently on the first floor of the building, thus preserving part of his legacy to the community.
The footprint of Mercader-Miret in Vilafranca
Despite his death in 2010, Mercader-Miret’s impact lives on in Vilafranca. His documentary legacy is preserved in the Vinseum Documentation Center, and his work continues to inspire generations of artists and citizens. The recent disappearance of the frieze has highlighted the importance of preserving local cultural heritage, and the community hopes that steps will be taken to recover this lost symbol.
Reflections on artistic heritage
This situation reminds us of the fragility of cultural heritage and the need to take care of our works of art. The Vilafranca community is mobilizing to claim its recovery, hoping that this loss will not be final and that the frieze will once again take its place as a witness to the rich artistic past of the Penedès.
