Diego VELÁZQUEZ ➡️ Painter of Kings and Realities

Diego Velázquez (1599-1660) is widely recognized as one of the greatest painters in art history. Born in Seville, Spain, Velázquez displayed exceptional talent from an early age, which allowed him to study under painter Francisco Pacheco. In 1623, he moved to Madrid and became the court painter for King Philip IV, a position he held for most of his life.
Velázquez is renowned for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects with unprecedented realism and naturalism. His portraits of the Spanish royal family and nobility, such as "Las Meninas" and the "Portrait of Innocent X," are masterpieces that reveal both the physical appearance and the personality of his models. "Las Meninas," in particular, is one of his most studied and admired works, noted for its complex composition and innovative use of perspective.
In addition to portraits, Velázquez also painted everyday scenes and mythological and religious themes. His loose and fluid technique, along with his masterful handling of light and shadow, significantly influenced the development of Western art. Later artists such as Manet and Picasso acknowledged their debt to Velázquez, highlighting his ability to combine technical precision with a profound psychological understanding of his subjects.
Diego Velázquez's work remains an endless source of inspiration and study, solidifying him as a fundamental figure in the history of art.