Envision an open book. It’s not just any book but the Homenatge al Llibre Sculpture right here in Barcelona. This monument pays tribute to the literary world. It stands proudly at the intersection of Passeig de Gràcia and Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes.
The Homenatge al Llibre is a creation of Joan Brossa. He designed it in 1994 as a visual poem. Brossa collaborated with graphic designer Josep Pla-Narbona.
But why is it here? The Guild of Second-Hand Booksellers of Catalonia commissioned it. Passeig de Gràcia hosts their annual book fair. It’s called the Fira del Llibre d’Ocasió Antic i Modern. This translates to the Ancient and Modern Used Book Fair. The location of Homenatge al Llibre is far from coincidental.
Initially, the Homenatge al Llibre was designed to move. It was meant to be like a “saltamartí” a Catalan toy. It’s similar to a Weeble or roly-poly toy that returns upright when pushed. However, the final version became a stationary piece.
The idea of the saltamartí had a deeper meaning for Brossa. He used it in a 1963 poem. It represented the resilience of the people. Just like the toy, the book always rights itself. It overcomes any obstacles it faces.
Look closely at the base of the Homenatge al Llibre. You’ll see tiles engraved with names. These honor Catalan writers. The Guild of Booksellers adds a tile each year. Names include Joan Brossa, Pere Gimferrer and Avel·lí Artís i Gener. You can also spot Isabel-Clara Simó and Albert Jané. Robert Saladrigas, Miquel Martí i Pol and Maria de la Pau Janer are also there.
The Homenatge al Llibre recreates an open book on a blue base. This base is a semi-sphere. The book is made of painted stainless steel. Originally, it was iron. Oxidation led to its replacement with steel sheets. The sculpture is over two meters tall. It rests on a grey granite base.
Consider the Homenatge al Llibre as more than just a sculpture. It embodies the enduring power of books. It is a tribute to Catalan literature and culture. It is a symbol of resilience. The Homenatge al Llibre stands tall.