The Turkey Seller

A Piece of Madrid’s History: The Turkey Seller

In Madrid’s bustling squares, from Plaza Mayor ^[1] to Santa Cruz Square ^[2], turkey sellers like the one immortalized in this figure appear during the Christmas season, offering more than just turkeys ^[3]. They provide a glimpse into a deep tradition and the essence of Madrid’s festive spirit.

The Turkey Seller: A Symbol of Madrid’s Tradition

The turkey seller is a figure that embodies the spirit of Madrid’s Christmas traditions. Turkey was a staple in the typical Christmas Eve menu in Madrid ^[5]. With her characteristic attire and vibrant energy, she represents the resilience and vitality of Madrid’s women in the early 20th century. As Benito Pérez Galdós ^[6] wrote: “The turkeys are not as well-fed as we thought. This morning, I weighed each one, and honestly, I think we should buy them from González. His capons are excellent… I weighed them too. In the end, you'll see for yourself.” ^[7]

Clothing and Appearance of the Turkey Seller

Turkey sellers, dressed to face Madrid’s cold winter, would wrap themselves in:

• Wool Dresses and Knitted Shawls: These thick dresses and shawls were essential to combat the cold, reflecting the practical fashion of the working women of the time.
• Head Scarves: These scarves, protecting them from the cold, were an integral part of their attire, showing both functionality and popular aesthetics.
• Durable Aprons: Used to protect their clothes while handling the turkeys, these aprons symbolized their hard and constant work.
• Long, Thin Stick: Used to control the turkeys and keep them in order, this was an essential tool in their daily work.

The Tradition of Buying and Eating Turkey for Christmas in Madrid

Since ancient times, turkey has been a central piece in Madrid’s Christmas celebrations. The tradition of eating turkey at Christmas is partly due to the custom of fattening these birds during the fall, taking advantage of the abundant acorns in the dehesas of Extremadura and Andalusia. This fattening process ensured well-fed turkeys, perfect for being the main dish at Christmas dinners.

Why Was Turkey Eaten on Christmas Eve?

Like red cabbage and sea bream, the seasonality explains the tradition of eating turkey at Christmas. The turkeys came from the dehesas of Salamanca and Extremadura, where they were fattened before the holidays with the last acorns. Once plump, turkey sellers would drive their flocks to the nearest train station, bound for Madrid. Upon arrival at the North Station (historically known as Madrid-Príncipe Pío ^[8]), they would walk them to Santa Cruz Square ^[2a]. The route, now 1.9 km, took about 24 minutes on foot. Turkey was the most coveted dish for Christmas Eve dinner, affordable for only a few.

In early 20th-century Madrid, it was common to see turkey sellers in the main markets and squares, creating a lively and bustling scene. The turkeys were sold alive, adding a sense of authenticity and freshness to the market. The constant gobbling of the turkeys became an unmistakable festive sound that filled the air, attracting both buyers and onlookers.

A Sensory Experience: Beyond the Taste

Turkey sellers didn’t just sell turkeys; they offered a complete experience that captured the senses:

• The Gobbling Noise: The unmistakable sound of live turkeys in the market, known as gobbling, created a festive commotion that signaled the arrival of the holiday season.
• The Bustling Market: The hustle and interaction between sellers and buyers added a layer of energy and excitement to the experience of buying a turkey for Christmas dinner.

Work Tools: The Heart of Their Trade

The turkey seller used various tools that were key to her daily work:

• Baskets and Cages: Used to transport and display the turkeys, these tools were essential in their daily trade.
• Scales and Weights: To weigh the turkeys and ensure customers received the correct amount.
• Ropes and Sticks: Used to handle and control the turkeys during the market’s busy hours.

Imagine having a figure that not only represents the rich tradition of Madrid but also tells stories of hard work, celebration, and community. The Turkey Seller from Santa Cruz Square is much more than a simple nativity figure or ornament; it is a symbol of the vibrant spirit of Madrid’s life and traditions.

My turkey seller sculpture is meticulously designed to capture every detail of her traditional attire and her dedication to her trade. From the apron to the turkeys she carries, each element is crafted with precision to offer you a unique piece that will not only be an essential part of your Castizo nativity but also beautify any space in your home, serving as a sculpture that evokes the essence of Madrid’s culture.

This figure is part of a limited series of only eight pieces, reproduced by order and carefully controlled by me to ensure its authenticity and quality. Each piece is crafted following article 136 of the BOE ^[11], guaranteeing the exclusivity and value of these limited-edition sculptures.

Don’t miss the opportunity to add this cultural gem to your collection. Purchase your Turkey Seller figure now and bring home a piece of Madrid’s history.