Spanish Baroque Art: Sculpture & Painting

Sculpture

In sculptural representations, there was a clear dominance of religious imagery. The Castilian school was distinguished, represented by the works of Gregorio Fernández, and the Andalusian school, with Martínez Montañés, Alonso Cano, and Pedro de Mena.

Sculpture Characteristics

Work and Author: La Piedad (1616), by Gregorio Fernández (1576-1636).
It was done in polychrome wood, as this allowed for greater realism, emphasizing the expressive ability and drama of the scene.
The figures were part of altarpieces or processions; this work was destined for the church of the Augustinians in Valladolid.
Theme: Religious. The Virgin holds the body of Christ in her arms.
Expressiveness: It tends to emphasize the expressive drama, as seen in the pain of the Virgin and in the blood and the different coloration of Christ's body.
Composition: The figures were arranged around a central triangle formed by the Virgin and Christ.
Realism: There is an attempt to capture reality in the anatomy of both Jesus and in the treatment of the folds of the Virgin's dress.
Note: The figures of the Virgin and Jesus are separate, likely for use in processions.

Baroque Painting

The seventeenth century was one of the most brilliant periods of Spanish painting. Religious themes predominated, but portraits, still life, mythological, and historical subjects were also created. Three main schools existed: Valencia, Madrid, and Andalusia.

Valencia School

Influenced by Italian painting with contrasts of light and color. Notable artists included Ribalta and Ribera.

Work Example: Martyrdom of Saint Philip

Work: Martyrdom of Saint Philip (1639).
Author: José de Ribera (1591-1652), a painter born in Xàtiva who worked in Naples.
Theme: Religious, depicting the martyrdom of Saint Philip, who, according to tradition, was crucified.
Composition: The scene is organized around two diagonals that converge on the central figure of the saint.
Illumination: The scene takes place outdoors, but natural light is strong, creating strong contrasts of light and shadow.
Realism: Realism is achieved in the treatment of figures; popular characters are portrayed devoid of idealization. Sacred figures are depicted as normal and relatable.
Note: Sacred figures, like the crucified Jesus, are depicted with realism.

Andalusian School

The Andalusian School is distinguished by its naturalism in representations, which are more simple, less