140 - Romanesque bishop's head, 13th–14th century.

Romanesque bishop's head, 13th–14th century. Carved stone. Measurements: 34 x 22 x 37 cm. Provenance: Family legacy of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. Archaeological collection formed from the 1950s by successive generations of the family, through acquisitions in European galleries and auction houses. The pronounced frontal orientation, the geometric treatment of the forms, and the expressiveness of the facial features reflect the aesthetic principles of Romanesque sculpture, characterized by the predominance of religious symbolism over naturalistic representation. Between the 11th and 12th centuries, sculpture took on a fundamental role in the ornamentation of churches, monasteries, and cathedrals, becoming an important vehicle for conveying the spiritual and doctrinal values of the era. In this context, depictions of saints, bishops, and other ecclesiastical figures occupied a prominent place within medieval sculptural programs. Given its proportions, this head may have belonged to a larger figure or been part of a religious architectural ensemble. The boldness of its forms, the solemnity of its expression, and the ornamental treatment of the miter lend it a remarkable sculptural presence and a special artistic and decorative appeal.