Bronze on a wooden base. Height: 32 cm.

Limited edition of 49 pieces.

War College Officer in the Melilla Campaign Year 1893

This bronze sculpture by the talented José Crespo depicts a war college officer during the Melilla Campaign of 1893. The officer’s figure, sculpted with remarkable attention to detail, reflects the elegance and authority of military leadership of the era. Dressed in a ceremonial uniform, the officer carries a saber, symbolizing his rank and responsibilities, while maintaining an upright and dignified posture. Every element of the uniform, from the buttons to the insignias, is meticulously detailed, showcasing the artist’s dedication to historical accuracy.

The officer’s expression and stance convey a blend of resolve and composure, encapsulating the courage and leadership required during the Melilla Campaign. His firm gaze and confident bearing reflect the spirit of the officers who played pivotal roles in the military campaigns of the late 19th century. The sculpture captures not only the physical appearance but also the character and determination of these military leaders.

The piece is mounted on a polished wooden base, adding a touch of sophistication and providing an elegant contrast to the bronze figure. A plaque on the base offers additional context, specifying the title and date of the campaign.

«Here begins this story…

This was my first figure, created using the lost-wax casting method. At the time, I had no experience in figure modeling, but one day I got hold of a piece of sculptor’s wax to give it a try. I was convinced something interesting could come out of it.

Who said fear? ‘There is no cliff barred to his feet…’

The figure is a three-dimensional interpretation of a character from one of the paintings by Spanish painter and military officer José Cusachs i Cusachs. In his painting ‘Military Camp,’ one character’s pose caught my attention, and I attempted to model it in wax. That figure, shown from the back in the painting, I transformed into a war college officer. Using J.M. Bueno’s books as a guide, I gathered all the details of the staff uniform from the era.

I began the first version in June 1997 in Burgos and finished it in Valencia that August. Later, in 2000, I reworked and improved it, eventually arriving at the final model.

Now, time to find a foundry…»

José Crespo