Artwork
San Nicolás de Tolentino
San Nicolás de Tolentino is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Juan Pantoja de la Cruz. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
San Nicolás de Tolentino is a 1601 oil painting by Juan Pantoja de la Cruz, a Spanish artist known for his work with the royal court. The painting is now part of the Museo del Prado's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a saint, identified as Nicolás de Tolentino by his attire and attributes. He is shown holding a crucifix and a plate with a bird, symbolizing his spiritual devotion and possibly a specific miracle or virtue associated with his sainthood.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the early Baroque style, characterized by realism and attention to detail. Pantoja de la Cruz's restrained style is evident in the dignified representation of the saint, with intricate details such as the gold stars on his robe and the naturalistic landscape background.
History & Provenance
Created in 1601, the painting reflects Pantoja de la Cruz's activity during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, a period when he was serving the Spanish royal court under Philip II and Philip III.
Artist & collection
Artist
Juan Pantoja de La Cruz (1553 – 26 October 1608) was a Spanish painter, one of the best representatives of the Spanish school of court painters.
The Emperor Charles V
Margaret of Austria
Philip III
The Infanta Isabel Clara Eugenia
Margaret of Austria
König Philipp IV. von Spanien (1605-1665) in geistlichem Gewand und seiner Schwester Infantin Anna (1601-1666), Bildnis in ganzer Figur
Isabella Clara Eugenia by Juan Pantoja de la Cruz
Saint Augustine
