Leonardo Martinez

LEONARDO MARTINEZ BUENO (1915- 1977).
"Woman.
Bronze. Exemplary 3/3.
Signed and justified.
Measurements: 29 x 10 x 15 cm.
After his stay in London in 1949, where he worked with Henry Moore, he developed series of seamstresses, maternity and water carriers, so it can be established that this work belongs to that period, not only for the subject matter, but also for the finish of rounded and organic anatomical forms.
An outstanding sculptor of his generation, he was trained in Cuenca and at the Escuela Superior de Bellas Artes de Madrid, complementing his learning with studies in London with Henry Moore. His initial work is inscribed in realism, with pieces such as the monument to Diego Hurtado de Mendoza, evolving later towards more stylized and plastic forms in series of maternities, seamstresses and water carriers. His early production is characterized by a vigorous realism, visible in the monument to Diego Hurtado de Mendoza.
He made important carvings for the Holy Week of Cuenca and Belmonte, and urban and religious sculptures in his hometown, such as the Cantarera, the Maternidad and several virgins in alabaster and polychrome wood. Among his awards are medals in National Exhibitions, Conde de Cartagena and Juan March Foundation scholarships, and the National Sculpture Prize. His work is part of public collections such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Madrid, the provincial museums of Ciudad Real and Cuenca, and various institutions in Barcelona.