Art + Design 
11 February 2021
Art + Design 
162

Miguel Berrocal 1933–2006

Paloma Jet

1976
bronze, brass 8½ h × 8¼ w × 6 d in (22 × 21 × 15 cm)
estimate: $2,000–3,000
result: $3,500
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The concept of multiples was central to Miguel Berrocal’s artistic practice. Just as painters used printing techniques to reproduce graphic works, Berrocal sought to make his three-dimensional sculptures accessible to a broader audience using advanced casting technology. As a result, many of the artist’s works were planned to be produced in large editions, however, given the complexity of the forms, full editions were often not completed.
Impressed signature and number to tail ‘Berrocal 276/2000’. This work is number 276 from the edition of 2000. This articulated sculpture represents a dove posed on a Corinthian capital; the dove’s body is a water jug and the capital is the glass. When the dove's wings are lifted and turned, landing gear drops down from the underside. Sold with original book containing instructions for assembly.
literature: Antologica Berrocal (1955-1984), Gallego, Opus 143, pg. 348-353, 453

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Empty space is as alive as full space. Look at it!

Miguel Berrocal

Miguel Berrocal 1933–2006

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Born in Villanueva de Algaidas, Málaga in 1933, Spanish sculptor Miguel Ortiz Berrocal is best known for his puzzle-like sculptures in metal and intricate jewelry designs. At a young age, Berrocal showed keen artistic talent and a passion for research. He studied in Madrid, where he attended various art schools and developed a fascination with analytic geometry, which later influenced his sculptural style.

Berrocal moved to Italy in 1967 and his career took off there, ultimately maintaining residence until 2004. He collaborated with sculptural foundries in Verona and Negrar to produce his artwork. His sculptures, ranging from monumental outdoor installations to small wearable ornaments, gained recognition and were exhibited extensively across Europe, North America, South America, and Japan. In 2004, Berrocal returned to his birthplace in Spain and remained artistically active until his sudden death in 2006.

Throughout his career, Berrocal explored new techniques and materials, incorporating miniature artworks and hidden jewelry within his puzzle sculptures. He gained acclaim for his ability to disassemble and reconfigure his sculptures into different arrangements. Verona and its foundries became important centers for contemporary art in Europe, attracting renowned artists such as Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte, thanks to Berrocal's influence.

Berrocal's legacy is preserved and promoted by the Fundación Escultor Berrocal (Berrocal Sculpture Foundation), which was founded by his heirs in 2007 and is based in his hometown of Villanueva de Algaidas, Málaga, Spain. Visitors may experience the "Berrocal Creative Universe," which is comprised of a museum, the Center of Interpretation of Water and Contemporary Art, Berrocal's final studio-workshop, and the house-museum. Berrocal's artistic achievements, from his early exhibitions in Madrid to his international success, continue to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts worldwide.

Auction Results Miguel Berrocal

Miguel Berrocal

Paloma jewelry chest and vanity

estimate: $25,000–30,000

result: $24,000

Miguel Berrocal

David

estimate: $3,000–5,000

result: $15,625

Miguel Berrocal

Omaggio Ad Arcimboldo

estimate: $2,000–3,000

result: $7,800

Miguel Berrocal

Alexandre (Opus 113)

estimate: $1,200–1,800

result: $7,560

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