Ignacio Cía, author of the 2008 Bull Fair Poster

"A bull that bows before the cape, that charges with his right side at the point of the cape, in warm and vibrant colours," is how this fiftieth edition of a poster is described. For this important anniversary a former president of 30 year's standing and a member of the bull commission for 42 years was commissioned to produce the poster, Ignacio Cía Iribarren.

The Presentation of the poster took place within the Pamplona bull ring at the Patio de los Caballos. This event marks the opening of the close season, so to speak, that makes one inevitably think of Sanfermin. The smell of bull is already in the air. Some small steps lead to the trophy room within the Pamplona bull ring. Here are found some of the best snapshots of the many innumerable performances acted out in the ring and the dissected heads of some of the majestic animals that have become a part of the history of the Pamplona bull ring. Along with these will one day stand the poster that, although not yet widely known, will go down in history as the "golden wedding" poster of the fair.

José María Marco, a member of the taurino commission, highlights the fact that "this poster provides a double sense of satisfaction. On the one hand, this edition is the fiftieth one, and on the other hand, the author is Ignacio Cía, who is not only a great artist, but he has also been a key figure in the important progress made by the Casa de Misericordia under his management."

Ignacio Cía, speaking before a gathering of bull-lovers and media personnel, expressed his feelings on being commissioned to do the poster as ones of "great satisfaction, profound respect and a sense of deep responsibility." In spite of his declaration that he is an "amateur" at painting, for many years now he has been receiving awards and recognition in the art world and particularly for his taurino themes.

All his work emanates a taurino aroma and even the typography of the poster has been carefully lent a touch in this respect. "The typography is that which is usually used for the back of the particular capes used in the first part of the bullfight."

This poster is being issued by the Casa de Misericordia in large-size and in medium size, with 2000 large-size posters being made available at a price of 3 euros and 3, 500 medium-sized posters at a price of 2 euros. Sales outlets are as usual at the bull ring and at the Casa de Misericordia premises. This year posters will also be sent abroad to anyone who puts in an order for them. The arrangement works by getting in contact with the Casa de Misericordia through the e-mail administracion@casamisericordiapamplona.com and to pay postal costs and the price of the poster to Western Union.