In the heart of Madrid, Spain, lies a captivating piece of art that has become an integral part of the city’s cultural landscape. “Woman with Mirror” (Spanish: Mujer con espejo) is a remarkable bronze sculpture created by the renowned Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. This larger-than-life artwork, weighing in at a substantial 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds), captures the essence of Botero’s distinctive style and artistic vision.
The Sculptor: Fernando Botero Fernando Botero is celebrated worldwide for his unique approach to art, characterized by his portrayal of subjects with exaggerated and voluptuous proportions. This distinctive style, often referred to as “Boterismo,” has made Botero a prominent figure in the realm of contemporary sculpture and painting. His works are instantly recognizable, and “Woman with Mirror” is no exception.
A Signature Figure “Woman with Mirror” is a testament to Botero’s fascination with the human form. The sculpture depicts a nude woman lying on her front, her ample figure gracefully captured in bronze. This portrayal of the female form, with its exaggerated curves and proportions, is a trademark of the artist. Botero’s ability to imbue his sculptures with sensuality and elegance while maintaining a sense of whimsy is one of his defining talents.
The Gift to Madrid The story of “Woman with Mirror” in Madrid is intertwined with the artist’s immense popularity. In May 1994, an exhibition of Botero’s works commenced in the Spanish capital. Within just a few months, this exhibition had drawn an astonishing two million visitors. The sponsor of the exhibition, Caja Madrid, organized a survey to determine which sculpture from the collection should be gifted to the city for public display.
“Woman with Mirror” emerged as the clear favorite among the people of Madrid. Its enchanting form and the way it captured the essence of Botero’s artistic style resonated deeply with the public. This remarkable bronze sculpture was chosen to become a permanent part of Madrid’s urban landscape.
A Public Display After being selected as the gift to the city, “Woman with Mirror” found its home on Calle de Génova, near the entrance to the iconic Plaza de Colón. Here, it became a beloved fixture of Madrid’s public art scene, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to appreciate Botero’s artistic genius. The sculpture’s prominent location ensures that it continues to be a focal point of the city’s cultural heritage.
Botero’s Influence in Madrid “Woman with Mirror” was not the only Botero masterpiece to grace the streets of Madrid. By April 1995, two more of the artist’s sculptures were on public display in the city. “The Hand,” acquired by Telefónica, and “Raptio of Europa” at Madrid–Barajas Airport further solidified Botero’s influence on Madrid’s art scene.
In the heart of Madrid, “Woman with Mirror” remains a testament to the enduring power of art to captivate and inspire. Its voluptuous form and timeless elegance continue to draw admirers from around the world, making it an integral part of the city’s cultural tapestry.
