The Washerwomen

Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if your job depended on the flow of a river?

The washwomen of the Manzanares didn’t just wonder—they lived and endured it firsthand. These brave women faced the cold, the heat, rain, and snow, day after day, to wash half of Madrid’s laundry. There they were, on the banks of the Manzanares, with cracked hands and knees on the ground, turning the river into a stage of effort and solidarity. But wait, this is not just a historical reminder.

Who washed baby Jesus’ diapers?

Imagine washing baby Jesus’ diapers in a nativity scene. Yes, you read that right! My next figure pays tribute to these tireless washwomen, depicting them in a sacred scene that breaks away from the typical representations of washwomen. They interact directly with the newborn. Why? Who says that in the art of the nativity, you can’t pay homage by depicting the essential tasks of daily life and humble professions?

Inspiration from an iconic photograph

Here comes the second act of our tribute. The inspiration comes from an iconic photograph by Alfonso Sánchez García, a master of Spanish photojournalism. Do you think the women in old photos were always anonymous and unknown? Think again. The model in that photograph was none other than his wife, María Portela, captured in a moment of domestic work that reflects the reality of many women of her time.

A conversation between past and present

This project is not just a sculpture, it’s a conversation between past and present, between art and real life. It’s a nod to the washwomen juggling laundry and their children, and a recognition of the artists who captured their essence. So, next time you see a washing machine, remember: there was a time when running water was a luxury, and the hands of the washwomen of the Manzanares were their most precious tool.

Don’t miss this double tribute

Are you intrigued by this mix of history, art, and reverence? Then you can’t miss this double tribute, where every detail tells a story, and every figure has a soul. Come, discover, and marvel at the dedication and artistry combined in this unique work.

Learn more about the washwomen of the Manzanares

Curious to learn more about the washwomen of the Manzanares and the rich history surrounding Madrid? This time, I won’t be the one telling you about it, but rather the memory of Alfonso Sánchez. Don’t miss “Through the Streets of Madrid” by Sonia Taravilla, a book that will immerse you in the fascinating and often forgotten details of these brave women and their daily lives. It’s a gem for anyone who wants to better understand the past and appreciate the stories that have shaped our society.

How did the idea of creating these figures come about?

Have you ever wondered who washed baby Jesus’ diapers? Exactly, someone had to do it. And that’s where our story comes to life. Creating figures of washwomen kneeling by the Manzanares river is a challenge, especially if you want to integrate them into a traditional Madrid-style nativity scene. So, when I saw this photograph, inspiration struck: why not depict a washwoman doing laundry at the Nativity?

Picture it: a basin on a tripod, a washboard, a bar of soap, and the whole set complete with a jug and a bucket for water, because, of course, there were no taps in those days. This scene not only pays homage to the washwomen of the Manzanares but also fits perfectly into the humble setting of the nativity.

And who better to accompany the nativity in this honorable task than a water seller? These women, who sold water in the streets of Madrid, are the perfect candidates for this sacred task. So, our figure is not only a piece of art, but a window into history, tradition, and everyday life of those times.

This figure is part of a limited series of just eight pieces, carefully crafted from the initial idea to the final delivery. The entire process, from research, composition and modeling, reproduction, hand-painting, to presentation and distribution, is done by me. Each piece is made in accordance with article 136 of the BOE [10], guaranteeing the exclusivity and value of these limited-edition sculptures.

Don’t miss the opportunity to add this historical gem to your collection. Buy your Washwoman figure now and bring home a piece of Madrid’s Galdosian legacy.

Transform your space into a tribute to Madrid’s traditions and celebrate the authenticity of life with a unique and exclusive piece of art!