Two project drawings for the exterior renovation of the Old Royal Palace of Barcelona

LLUÍS RIGALT I FARRIOLS (1814-1894)

Catalonia, circa 1864.

Pair of drawings showing the projects designed for the renovation of the façade of the old Palau de la Reina in Barcelona. This old building, which had had multiple uses since its medieval origins, was adapted and converted into a royal residence on the occasion of Queen Isabel II’s stay in Barcelona in 1864. During the brief period of the First Republic it functioned as a courthouse until Christmas 1875 when the building suffered a spectacular fire that partially destroyed it and was subsequently demolished.

Pencil and wash on vellum paper.

Rare and unpublished drawings of great historical interest. It was unknown whether the painter and decorator Lluís Rigalt was involved in the exterior design of the façade of this building. At the bottom of the first drawing, a table of measurements in Catalan palms and in both drawings, ink notes at the bottom: Project to proceed with the exterior reform of the Royal Palace of Barcelona.

Signatures, in ink, on both drawings.

At the top of the first design, where the flag is located, you can see a pencil sketch of the attic or crest where the clock would be, as it appears in old photographs and lithographs.

Good condition. Light foxing marks.

Price for the pair of drawings (sold together).