Halberdier of the Royal Guard
This sculpture by José Crespo depicts a halberdier of the Royal Guard, a figure steeped in tradition and symbolism in military history. Crafted in bronze, the piece captures the halberdier in a formal and vigilant pose, holding his halberd with firmness and pride. The attention to detail is evident in the uniform, reflecting the splendor and formality of the Royal Guard.
The bronze features a patina that adds depth and enhances the textures, highlighting the folds of the uniform. The halberdier’s expression is serene and focused, showcasing his discipline and commitment to duty. The halberd, both a ceremonial and combat weapon, is depicted with precision, emphasizing historical authenticity and the artist’s dedication to detail.
The sculpture is mounted on a polished wooden base, adding a warm and elegant contrast to the bronze. This solid base not only provides stability but also frames the piece, allowing it to stand out in any setting.
«Living in Madrid in 2009, I felt inspired to create a military-themed figure connected to the city, and what could be more representative than the Royal Guard? I decided to model this halberdier, as well as a mounted Royal Guard. I initially started it in modeling clay, but since I hadn’t built a proper internal structure, it turned out to be a disaster, and I had to redo it in wax. Due to an upcoming relocation, I had to finish it very quickly in December 2009.
I would have liked to have had more photographs to work from when creating it…»
José Crespo