Dona Lluna
San Vicente del Raspeig

In the heart of San Vicente del Raspeig, a bustling town in southeastern Spain, stands a monumental tribute to femininity and cosmic energy: Dona Lluna. This striking sculpture, whose name translates to Woman Moon in English, is not just a piece of art but a symbol of renewal, resilience, and the universal essence of womanhood. Created by the renowned Spanish artist Saülo Mercader, Dona Lluna was unveiled to the public on March 11, 2007, in a grand ceremony attended by local dignitaries, the mayor, and an orchestra from Madrid, among others.

The Artistic Brilliance of Saülo Mercader

Saülo Mercader, a celebrated painter and sculptor, poured his heart and soul into this masterpiece. His vision was to create more than just a sculpture; he wanted to forge a totem, a monumental figure that would stand as a testament to the powers of the feminine spirit. Dona Lluna, towering at 5.5 meters with an additional 1.5-meter pedestal, is a colossal bronze figure weighing two tons and costing 120,000 euros to the local administration.

A Cosmic and Earthly Symbol

The sculpture is a robust and powerful representation of the female form, with generous curves symbolizing fertility and nourishment. Its broad hips and nurturing breasts evoke the image of a Mother Goddess, a figure revered in cultures across the globe. The head of the sculpture is a crescent moon, giving it a universal and cosmic dimension. Inscribed on this crescent are the words aquí nací, aquí doy (here I was born, here I give), a poignant reminder of Mercader's roots and journey.

Elements of Life Encapsulated

Dona Lluna encapsulates the fundamental elements of life:

• Earth: The sculpture's roots lie in the earth, symbolizing its origin. The initial model was crafted from clay and fired, grounding it in the very soil of its birthplace.
• Air: The sculpture is perpetually surrounded by air, representing the breath of life that sustains it.
• Water: This element is symbolized by the sculpture's long, flowing hair, cascading like abundant waves from head to foot.
• Fire: The bronze material of the sculpture was forged and patinated in a foundry, symbolizing the transformative power of fire.
• Space: The sculpture stands in an open space, connecting the celestial, terrestrial, and subterranean realms.

A Lunar Calendar and Cosmic Energy

Surrounding Dona Lluna are twelve two-meter-high stones, also painted by Mercader, forming a lunar calendar. This circular arrangement, encompassing both the sculpture and a centennial carob tree, represents a cosmic center of positive energies. This cosmic matrix provides a sense of well-being, balance, and harmony to the residents of San Vicente del Raspeig, who live in close proximity to this monumental artwork.

A Universal Monument to Womanhood

According to Saülo Mercader, Dona Lluna carries a profound symbolism and universal dimension. It stands as a unique secular monument dedicated to women, a rarity in today's world. The creation of such a significant sculpture in the very town where Mercader was born and where his life took a dramatic turn is nothing short of miraculous.

The Miraculous Birth of an Artist

Mercader's entry into the world of art began in 1944 at the estate Los Molinos in San Vicente del Raspeig, where he spent the first five years of his life. His birth was marked by strange natural phenomena, a miracle both theologically and physically. Those who have read his autobiographical book Les Chants de l'Ombre (published by Imago Editions, Paris, 2000) can appreciate the extraordinary dimension of this creator and his incredible, almost inhuman efforts to overcome countless challenges. From a life of abandonment, he rose to touch the light, gifting the world with art imbued with his experiences, full of strength, humanism, and hope.

Commemorating the Inauguration

To commemorate the unveiling of Dona Lluna, composer Manuel Lillo Torregrosa composed an overture bearing the same name. This musical tribute adds another layer of cultural significance to the sculpture, intertwining visual and auditory art forms in a celebration of the feminine spirit.

In conclusion, Dona Lluna is not merely a sculpture; it is a profound statement of human resilience, cultural continuity, and the cosmic essence of womanhood. It stands proudly in San Vicente del Raspeig, inviting visitors to reflect on the universal themes of life, balance, and harmony. This remarkable monument is a must-see for anyone visiting the region, offering a unique blend of artistic brilliance and deep symbolic meaning.