Artist: El Greco (Doménikos Theotokopoulos)
Topic: Birth And Death
Date: 1586
Size: 480 x 360 cm
Museum: Santo Tomé (Toledo, Spain)
Technique: Oil On Canvas
Artist and Title
El Greco (Doménikos Theotokopoulos), a prominent Renaissance painter, sculptor, and architect of Greek origin, created the masterpiece "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz". This painting is widely considered among his finest works.
Size and Media
This exceptionally large painting measures 480 x 360 cm and is made with oil on canvas, showcasing El Greco's mastery of color and light.
Date and Location
The Burial of the Count of Orgaz was created in 1586 for the side-chapel of the Virgin of the church of Santo Tomé in Toledo, Spain.
Description
The theme of this painting is inspired by a legend of the early 14th century about Don Gonzalo Ruiz de Toledo, also known as the Count of Orgaz. The composition closely relates to the Byzantine iconography of the Dormition of the Mother of God. The Burial of the Count of Orgaz is divided into two zones, juxtaposing the earthly with the heavenly world. On the left side, we see the burial scene taking place in a chapel at night, while on the right side, saints and angels are descending from heaven to attend the burial. The Count of Orgaz, who donated money to the church of Santo Tomé upon his death, is depicted in the painting being carried by St. Augustine and St. Stephen. The parish priest of Santo Tomé, Andrés Núñez, who commissioned the painting, is portrayed reading a book.
Commissioned for the Church of Santo Tomé
The Burial of the Count of Orgaz was commissioned by Andrés Núñez, the parish priest of Santo Tomé, for the side-chapel of the Virgin of the church of Santo Tomé. You can learn more about this historic building and its impressive collection of artworks on our Museum Santo Tomé (Toledo, Spain) page.
Experience the Masterpiece
At Wikioo.org, we offer high-quality reproductions of this masterpiece that you can hang in your home or office. Explore our collection of "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz" paintings and find the perfect one for you.
Discover More About El Greco
If you're interested in learning more about El Greco, be sure to check out our collection of his other works on our Spanish (Castilian) Painter page.
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