Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Madrid, we find the Francisco Pérez Mateo Plaque. This plaque marks the former site of Pérez Mateo’s home and studio. It serves as a poignant reminder of a life tragically cut short. Francisco Pérez Mateo, a sculptor of the avant-garde, lived and worked here from 1931 until his untimely death in 1936. The Francisco Pérez Mateo Plaque stands as a testament to his artistic legacy.
Born in Barcelona in 1903, Pérez Mateo found his artistic calling early in life. He honed his skills at the Escolapios de Barcelona. There, he experimented with wood carving. He immersed himself in the city’s burgeoning avant-garde scene, influenced by international artists seeking refuge from the Great War. In 1919, he moved to Madrid with his father. He enrolled at the prestigious Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, where he dedicated himself to his studies. He established a stonemason’s workshop to master the technique of direct carving. He even experimented with aluminum as a sculptural medium.
Pérez Mateo’s artistic journey took him to Paris in 1925. There, he encountered the works of innovative modern sculptors. This experience solidified his commitment to stone carving. He returned to Madrid, where he frequented artists’ cafes. He engaged in discussions about the burgeoning New Objectivity movement championed by Franz Roh. These influences culminated in a 1928 exhibition. He showcased his work alongside fellow artists Antonio Alix and Pedro Muñoz Condado.
By the 1930s, a new theme emerged in Pérez Mateo’s work: sports. He captured the dynamism of athletes in sculptures such as “Boxers” (1930), “Swimmers” (1930), and “Hammer Thrower” (1931). The Francisco Pérez Mateo Plaque commemorates this period of his artistic exploration as well. He joined the Fifth Regiment and was sent to the Carabanchel front. Tragically, he lost his life in the defense of Madrid on November 6, 1936. The Francisco Pérez Mateo Plaque not only remembers the artist but also the individual who bravely fought for his beliefs. It acknowledges his dedication to his craft and his commitment to his country. The Francisco Pérez Mateo Plaque ensures that his contributions, both artistic and personal, are not forgotten.