Diego Rodríguez De Silva Y Velázquez

Place: Seville

Born: 1599

Death: 1660

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a prominent figure in the Spanish art scene, was born on June 6, 1599, in Seville, Spain. His early life was marked by an innate passion for art, which led him to train under the tutelage of Francisco de Herrera el Viejo and later with Francisco Pacheco. This foundational period laid the groundwork for his future success as a painter.

Rise to Prominence

At the age of 24, Velázquez relocated to Madrid, where he was appointed as the court painter to King Philip IV of Spain. This position not only elevated his status but also provided him with the opportunity to capture the essence of the Spanish royal family and nobility through his art. His work during this period is characterized by a naturalistic style, which was influenced by the Caravaggio school sweeping across Europe.

Notable Works

- Les Ménines, a masterpiece showcasing Velázquez's skill in capturing the subtleties of light and shadow. - Vénus à son miroir, a poignant piece that reflects his ability to balance realism with the beauty of the human form. - Les Fileuses, a testament to his versatility as an artist.

Legacy

Velázquez's impact on Spanish art is immeasurable. His influence can be seen in later artists such as Francisco de Goya, Édouard Manet, and Pablo Picasso. Today, his works are housed in various museums around the world, including the Museo del Prado in Madrid, which showcases some of his most renowned pieces.

• **View Velázquez's Works on Wikioo.org:** [https://www.Wikioo.org.com/](https://www.Wikioo.org.com/) (Search: Diego Velázquez)
• **Wikipedia:** [https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_V%C3%A9lasquez](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_V%C3%A9lasquez) (French Wikipedia Page on Diego Velázquez)

- Born: June 6, 1599 - Died: August 6, 1660 - Appointed Court Painter to King Philip IV of Spain: 1628

Museums Featuring His Work

, Madrid - Housing an extensive collection of Velázquez's works. Musée des beaux-arts, Valence - Features several of his notable pieces, including Autoportrait 1643.