A Window to the Past: The Enduring Art of Murria Bodega
Monochrome photography from Barcelona in Spain
In the heart of Barcelona, certain storefronts are much more than just shops—they are living museums of Catalan design and commerce. This photograph captures the iconic display window of Murria, a historic bodega (wine and speciality food shop) known for its commitment to tradition and its beautiful, preserved architectural elements.
The image is dominated by the striking, artistic figure painted or affixed to the curved window panel. This artwork, signed “VICENTE BOSCH,” is reminiscent of the colourful, elegant Modernist-era advertising art that decorated Catalan goods in the early 20th century. The figure, dressed in traditional Spanish attire, exudes a timeless elegance, suggesting the quality and heritage of the products sold within.
The black and white processing allows the geometric structure of the storefront to stand out, highlighting the contrast between the dark, reflective glass and the ornate marble base of the building. Through the straight-on windows, bottles and speciality items are neatly organised on shelves, providing a glimpse of the shop’s diverse stock. The lighting draws attention to the intricate details of the advertising, making the entire display a captivating piece of public art and commercial history.
This image beautifully illustrates how Barcelona preserves its commercial identity, making places like Murria vital cultural anchors that continue to link the city’s artistic past with its contemporary culinary life.