Spanish Baroque Artistry: Architecture and Sculpture

Baroque Architecture in Spain

Spanish Baroque architecture, evolving from the 17th century Herrera style, gradually incorporated more plastic and pictorial elements. The early 18th century saw the rise of the Churrigueresque style, characterized by its elaborate ornamentation.

Early 17th Century Developments

In the first half of the 17th century, figures like Juan Gómez de la Mora emerged, whose work still showed the influence of the Herrera style. Notable examples of his architectural style include the Clerecía School of Salamanca and the Plaza Mayor.

Late 17th and 18th Century Flourishing

During the second half of the 17th century and throughout the 18th century, Baroque decoration became richer, featuring abundant garlands and imparting greater mobility to facades. In Madrid, the prominent figure was Pedro de Ribera, whose work, such as the striking facade of the Hospice of San Fernando, is highly emphasized.

Other significant Baroque architectural achievements include:

• The Transparente of Toledo Cathedral
• The Obradoiro facade of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
• The facade of Granada Cathedral
• The facade of Murcia Cathedral

The Facade of Murcia Cathedral

The main facade of Murcia Cathedral, designed by Jaime Bort and constructed between 1736 and 1754, is a magnificent example of Baroque religious architecture. It features exquisite Baroque stonework and marble.

Its construction was supported by Cardinal Belluga and the Spanish Crown. Jaime Bort conceived the facade as an exaltation of the Virgin Mary and a glorification of the Church of Cartagena (the diocese to which Murcia belongs).

The facade is divided into two main bodies, separated by large columns resting on pedestals, with a central axis where a shrine stands. It is topped by an attic featuring a curved figure of Saint James.

The design is further enriched by three divided parts: two side sections flanked by windows, Corinthian columns, and sculptural groups, and a large window on the second body of the imafronte (main facade).

Historically, access was regulated:

• The Door of Forgiveness (central access) was reserved for royalty.
• The north side entrance was for the bishop.
• The opposite side entrance was for the town council.

The remaining elements of the imafronte include various symbols, allegories, and figures of saints from the diocese, such as the Four Saints of Cartagena and a statue of Saint Ferdinand.

Baroque Sculpture in Spain

General Characteristics

Spanish Baroque sculpture is almost exclusively religious in character and primarily involves polychrome wood. Its main aim was to evoke strong emotions and raise awareness among believers, making them feel as if they were witnesses to Christ's Passion. This objective explains the theatrical realism and intense emotionality found in Spanish religious imagery.

The primary patrons were the Church, commissioning cult images and altarpieces, and confraternities, who ordered processional pasos (sculptural groups carried in processions).

To enhance realism, several techniques were employed, including:

• The painting of images using the estofado polychrome technique.
• Incorporating real clothing, hair, and even natural nails into the sculptures.

Key Schools and Artists

In the early 17th century, two main sculptural schools emerged: one in Castile and another in Andalusia. By the 18th century, the Murcian school gained significant prominence, largely due to the influential work of Francisco Salzillo.