A Curated Legacy: The Timeless Window of Bodega Murria
Monochrome photography from Barcelona in Spain
Barcelona is home to several historic, protected storefronts that serve as living archives of the city’s commercial and artistic past. This photograph captures the iconic façade of Bodega Murria (or a similar establishment), famous for its beautifully preserved windows and classic advertising.
The image is a rich tapestry of glass, stone, and artistic reflection. The most striking element is the large, curved window featuring a vintage, elegant painted or decaled advertisement. This art, signed “VICENTE BOSCH,” depicts a woman and a male figure, reflecting the sophisticated style of early 20th-century Catalan advertising.
A powerful detail is the lower sign within the window advertising “LÍC.OR CHARTREUSE TARRAGONA,” rooting the shop in the history of fine spirits and showcasing a historic product. The strong black and white processing amplifies the reflectivity of the glass, causing the architecture of the buildings across the street to appear in the curved surface, adding layers of depth and urban context.
The shop itself is a warm, glowing treasure box, shelves packed with bottles, visible through the windows, suggesting a deep history in wine and delicatessen. This image is a tribute to the enduring elegance of Barcelona’s historic commerce, where the act of window-shopping is also an appreciation of fine public art.