Photosculpture: Exploring Innovative 19th-Century 3D Art at the Royal Collections Gallery

This exhibition explores the innovative photosculpture technique developed in the 19th century by François Willème. It showcases a significant collection of these rare 3D photographic representations, focusing on members of the Spanish royal family.

The exhibition 'Photosculpture: 19th-century 3D' presents a rare and extensive collection of photosculptures, which represent the largest and most important collection of its kind globally. This technique, invented by François Willème between 1860 and 1868, used photography and sculpture to create detailed three-dimensional representations of people. The exhibition features nineteen of the thirty-nine pieces from the Royal Collections, primarily depicting members of Isabella II's family and close relatives, executed in various materials like porcelain and electroplated copper. The text delves into the intricate process of creating these photosculptures, from the simultaneous photography to the use of pantographs and subsequent sculpting, highlighting the high cost and eventual cessation of the technique. It also touches upon the introduction of this technology in Spain through Juan Laurent and its impact on the Spanish aristocracy. The collection itself is vast, with Patrimonio Nacional holding the most significant group of photosculptures, many portraying the Spanish royal family. The exhibition also details the specific works, including the large group portrait 'The Royal Family,' and highlights the meticulous accuracy of photosculpture in capturing details of clothing and jewelry. Further sections discuss the dissemination of this technique internationally in Great Britain, the United States, and other European collections. The accompanying bibliographical resources and details about the curators, museographic design, and installation provide a comprehensive context for understanding this historical photographic art form.

Admission to the Royal Collection Gallery and temporary exhibitions is available via Plaza de la Armería. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm, and Sundays and Bank Holidays from 10 am to 7 pm.