Artwork

Veil of Veronica

Veil of Veronica, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1641
Veil of Veronica, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1641

Veil of Veronica is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Francisco de Zurbarán. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

About this work

Overview

Veil of Veronica is an oil painting by Francisco de Zurbarán, created around 1641. It is now held at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a white cloth with a faint image of a man's face, suspended between two strings. The face is rendered in soft, reddish-brown tones, conveying a subtle expression. The work is a representation of the Veil of Veronica, a relic associated with the Passion of Christ.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing attention to the central image. Light and shadow are skillfully employed to convey volume and tension, adding to the work's emotional impact.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco de Zurbarán

Artist

Francisco de Zurbarán

Francisco de Zurbarán was a Spanish Baroque painter. He is known primarily for his religious paintings depicting monks, nuns, and martyrs, and for his still-lifes. Zurbarán gained the nickname "Spanish Caravaggio",…