Artwork

San Agustín repartiendo los bienes de los ricos entre los pobres

San Agustín repartiendo los bienes de los ricos entre los pobres, by José García Hidalgo, oil, 1663
San Agustín repartiendo los bienes de los ricos entre los pobres, by José García Hidalgo, oil, 1663

San Agustín repartiendo los bienes de los ricos entre los pobres is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist José García Hidalgo. It dates from 1663 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1663 by the Spanish artist José García Hidalgo, known in his era as El Castellano, this oil painting portrays Saint Augustine of Hippo in the act of allocating the possessions of affluent individuals to those in need. Executed in the early Baroque idiom that drew on Italian models, the work now belongs to the collection of Madrid’s Museo del Prado.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, Saint Augustine, is shown in a black habit with a white collar, holding a basket that symbolizes the redistribution of wealth. Around him stand a crowd in dark attire, some clutching objects, while a woman cradles an infant on the right, emphasizing the charitable focus on families and the vulnerable.

Technique & Style

Rendered in oil on canvas, the painting displays a nuanced palette that moves from deep browns and blacks to softer beiges and whites, creating a sense of depth and material richness. Hidalgo’s handling of light and shadow reflects the dramatic chiaroscuro typical of early Baroque, while the detailed textures convey the tactile quality of the figures’ garments and objects.

History & Provenance

After its completion, the work entered the Spanish royal collections before being transferred to the national museum system. It has been part of the Museo del Prado’s holdings since the 19th century, where it remains on display as an example of Hidalgo’s religious commissions and the broader Baroque engagement with moral themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of José García Hidalgo

Artist

José García Hidalgo

José García Hidalgo (1645 or 1646 – 1717 or 1719) was a Spanish painter, who wrote notes of his life, but omitted to state where and when he was born.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.