Artwork
Mary Meeting Elizabeth
Mary Meeting Elizabeth is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Juan del Castillo. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Juan del Castillo's 'Mary Meeting Elizabeth' is an oil painting from 1630, exemplifying the early Baroque style. It is now held in the State Hermitage Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the biblical scene of the Visitation, where the Virgin Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth. The two women are shown embracing, with a bearded man observing from a doorway, likely representing a servant or relative.
Technique & Style
Del Castillo's work is characterized by its adherence to the early Baroque Italian movement, evident in the composition and use of color. The figures are rendered with attention to detail, as seen in their clothing and expressions.
History & Provenance
Juan del Castillo, trained in Seville under Luis Fernández, went on to work in various cities, including Granada and Cádiz. His influence was significant, as he taught notable artists such as Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and Juan de Valdés Leal.
Artist & collection
Artist
Juan del Castillo (c. 1590 – c. 1657) was a Spanish Baroque painter. Many of his paintings became famous during his time due to his pupil, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Del Castillo was the youngest brother of the painter…
