Jaral de Berrio III, Guanajuato, Mexico

Signed, titled, dated and from edition of 5 on artist’s label on verso.

Available in 3 sizes: 100 x 120 cm. (39.4 x 47.2 in.), 120 x 150 cm. (47.2 x 59.1 in.), 180 x 225 cm. (70.9 x 88.6 in.)

Massimo Listri’s photograph of “Jaral de Berrio III, Guanajuato, Mexico” offers a poignant glimpse into the faded grandeur and storied past of this historic location. The room depicted in the image appears to be in a state of disrepair, with holes in the floor, piles of rubble, and peeling wallpaper adding to the sense of decay.

Jaral de Berrio, located in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico, holds a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Constructed in the 18th century, Jaral de Berrio was once a sprawling hacienda belonging to the wealthy Spanish nobleman, Don José de la Berrera y Bocanegra. The hacienda served as a center of agricultural production, with vast fields and livestock contributing to its prosperity.

Over the centuries, Jaral de Berrio witnessed periods of prosperity and decline, reflecting the changing economic and social dynamics of the region. Despite its former grandeur, the hacienda fell into disrepair over time, with neglect and abandonment contributing to its current state of dilapidation.

Listri’s photograph captures the haunting beauty of decay, inviting viewers to contemplate the passage of time and the impermanence of human endeavors. The exposed beams of the ceiling hint at the once-impressive architectural features of the space, while the crumbling walls bear witness to the ravages of neglect and abandonment.

While the exact circumstances surrounding the decline of Jaral de Berrio may remain shrouded in mystery, Listri’s photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of historical landmarks and the importance of preserving them for future generations. Through his lens, viewers are invited to reflect on the complex interplay between history, memory, and the passage of time, as embodied by this evocative image of Jaral de Berrio.