The piece, which was auctioned for 152,000 euros last March, is considered an asset of great historical and identity value for the region. Despite the initial interest of the Associació Amics de Sant Miquel de Toudell and the Viladecavalls City Council to prevent its sale to a private buyer, it was ultimately acquired by an individual.
However, the Museums Law establishes a two-month period from the communication of the purchase for the Generalitat de Catalunya to exercise its right of first refusal. Given this window of opportunity, both councils have submitted a request to the Directorate General of Cultural Heritage, asking for the Government's intervention to ensure the altarpiece remains in public domain.
“"From the very beginning, we have been in contact with the Viladecavalls City Council, as well as with the Museums and Movable Property Protection Service of the Generalitat de Catalunya, with the aim of promoting the necessary measures so that this work can be in public hands."
This joint action seeks to obtain a clear position from the Generalitat. A spokesperson for the Viladecavalls City Council emphasized the importance of the work, stating that it is not just any piece, but an asset with deep historical, artistic, and identity value for the municipality, and has called for a more decisive effort for its acquisition.
It is worth noting that the altarpiece of Santa Maria de Toudell will not be able to leave Catalunya. Days before the auction, the Generalitat de Catalunya initiated procedures to declare it a Cultural Asset of National Interest (BCIN), the highest figure of heritage protection. This decision was prompted by pressure from the Viladecavalls City Council following its imminent sale.
