Directly opposite the luxury boutique hotel Urso Hotel & Spa stands the immaculate palace of the Count of Villagonzalo, or the Palacio de Santa Bárbara, a living testament to the elegance and splendour of bygone times. In commemoration of the centenary of the death of the illustrious painter Joaquín Sorolla, the Sorolla Museum has inaugurated the exhibition “Sorolla and the Count of Villagonzalo. An Unseen Conversation”. This cultural event in Madrid offers a unique opportunity for art and culture enthusiasts, allowing them to explore the relationship between the renowned artist and the noble through a fascinating epistolary dialogue. This journey not only reveals the background of their works but also captures the essence of art and aristocracy at the beginning of the 20th century, further consolidating Sorolla’s legacy and his unwavering connection to Madrid’s history.
The Artistic Relationship
The relationship between Joaquín Sorolla and the Count of Villagonzalo was forged in an environment of mutual admiration and respect, uniting the forces of an outstanding artist with a nobleman passionate about art. This bond was not merely professional; both shared a deep interest in the cultural development of their time. Through their correspondence, one can observe how Sorolla and the count discussed details regarding the posing sessions and the progress of their works, unveiling an intimate collaboration that went beyond simple commercial transactions. This interaction not only facilitated the creation of masterpieces but also offered Sorolla the chance to explore new artistic dimensions. The count, on his part, contributed his aristocratic perspective and knowledge of art, enriching Sorolla’s creative process. Together, they left a legacy that resonates in the history of art and aristocracy in Madrid.
The Historical Context
At the beginning of the 20th century, Madrid was a hotbed of change and modernisation, where art and aristocracy intertwined in a fascinating dance of innovation and tradition. Joaquín Sorolla, renowned for his skill with light and colour, emerged in this period as a central figure in the renaissance of Spanish art. Simultaneously, the Count of Villagonzalo represented the stability and refinement of the nobility, serving as a bridge between a glorious past and a promising future. At a time when Spain sought to assert its cultural identity, the letters exchanged between Sorolla and the count provide a valuable testament to how art could serve as a medium for social cohesion and dialogue between different classes.
The Temporary Exhibition
The temporary exhibition “Sorolla and the Count of Villagonzalo. An Unseen Conversation” presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the fascinating dialogue between art and nobility. This exhibition, curated by Noemí Lozano and Mara López-Villalta, is displayed at the Sorolla Museum, bringing together a collection of recently discovered letters that offer an intimate view of Joaquín Sorolla’s creative process. Among the documents, the correspondence about the portrait of the count’s daughter, dated 1907, stands out, reflecting the evolution of the work and the personal interactions between the painter and the nobleman. Open from 2nd July to 22nd September 2024, the exhibition allows visitors to explore how Sorolla balanced various commissions, including portraits of prominent figures such as Kings Alfonso XIII and Victoria Eugenie. In this setting, the exhibition becomes a testament to the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity in 20th century Madrid.
