Artwork
Auto-da-fe on Plaza Mayor, Madrid
Auto-da-fe on Plaza Mayor, Madrid is an oil painting by the Spanish Baroque Tenebrist artist Francisco Rizi. It is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Auto-da-fe on Plaza Mayor, Madrid is an oil painting created by Francisco Rizi in 1683 (not 1692).
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a solemn public event in Madrid's Plaza Mayor, likely an auto-da-fé, a ritualistic procession and sentencing of heretics during the Spanish Inquisition. A central stage with an altar and crosses is surrounded by a dense crowd, with soldiers holding spears and flags.
Technique & Style
Rizi employs chiaroscuro, using contrasting light and shadow to create a sense of tension and depth. The varied facial expressions and details among the crowd demonstrate the artist's skill in capturing individuality within a large scene, while maintaining a cohesive atmosphere.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held at the Museo del Prado.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
- Carlos III renuncia a la corona de Nápoles
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Untitled
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