The statue of Fortuny in Barcelona: a symbol of art history
The Fortuny statue in Barcelona is a historical monument that has suffered serious damage in recent months. Located in the Raval neighborhood, this sculpture dedicated to Marià Fortuny, a renowned 19th century painter, has lost her nose and part of her left foot. These acts of vandalism have generated concern in the community and have sparked interest in its restoration.
Vandalism and the wait for restoration
Last mid-December, the Fortuny statue was attacked by a vandal who used a hammer to damage it. Although several witnesses witnessed the act, the person responsible has not yet been identified. Since then, the statue has remained without a nose and part of its left foot. However, Barcelona City Council has started the procedure for its restoration, with the aim of returning it to its original splendor.
The fight for restoration before the 150th anniversary of the painter’s death
The Vitelloni collective, a group of professionals that meets in the Raval neighborhood, has formulated a request for the Fortuny statue to be restored before November 21, the date on which the 150th anniversary of the painter’s death is commemorated. This group has held conversations with the culture advisor of the Ciutat Vella district, Albert Salmerón, who has expressed his intention to restore the statue as soon as possible.
The importance of preserving the artistic value of the statue
The statue of Fortuny, made of marble by the brothers Miquel and Llucià Oslé in 1922, is considered a work of artistic value. However, its current location does not allow us to appreciate the back of the sculpture, which contains graphics and inscriptions. For this reason, the Vitelloni collective has requested that a way be found to show this part of the statue, such as the inclusion of a QR code that allows access to images of the back.
The commitment of Barcelona City Council
Barcelona City Council has shown its commitment to the restoration of the Fortuny statue. Municipal technicians are already working to find the most appropriate technical solution for a reliable restoration. In addition, measures have been taken to prevent future acts of vandalism, such as the installation of surveillance cameras in the monument area.
The restoration as a tribute to the legacy of Marià Fortuny
The restoration of the Fortuny statue not only seeks to restore its original appearance, but also pay tribute to the painter’s legacy on the 150th anniversary of his death. It is expected that the statue will be restored before November 21, the date on which this important event is commemorated. Likewise, a special event is planned to link the sculpture with the Raval neighborhood and highlight its historical and artistic value.