Andorra Awards Posthumous Order of Charlemagne to Sculptor Josep Viladomat

The Andorran government has approved a posthumous award of the Order of Charlemagne to sculptor Josep Viladomat Massanas, recognising his contributions to national culture.

The Council of Ministers made the decision on Wednesday, honouring the artist's work across arts, sculpture, painting, illustration and mural art.

Josep Viladomat i Massanas was born in Manlleu on 23 March 1899 and died in Andorra on 4 June 1989. A prominent Catalan sculptor, he was known for his figurative works, marked by an elegant and expressive style. He trained in Barcelona, initially in religious imagery workshops, before developing a personal approach influenced by noucentisme and realism.

The Spanish Civil War forced him into exile, leading him to live for years outside Spain, primarily in Andorra. There, he continued producing sculpture and murals, establishing himself as one of the 20th century's leading sculptors. His pieces often featured human figures, capturing sensitivity in form and movement.

Much of his collection is housed at the Centre d’Art d’Escaldes-Engordany, with works in bronze, plaster and marble. Other sculptures are displayed around the country, including one of co-prince Joan Benlloch in the church square of Andorra la Vella, *La Banyista* in Sant Julià de Lòria, and *El Contrapàs* in the gardens of Casa de la Vall.

The Order of Charlemagne is an honorary distinction awarded for distinguished merits—whether in life or posthumously—to individuals or organisations, Andorran or foreign, who have provided significant services to the Andorran state.