Description
The Birth of the Virgin painting by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo is a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque art showing the scene of the birth of the Virgin Mary. The large painting (179 x 340 cm), was painted in 1660 and is in the Cathedral of Seville.
Murillo's artistic style is characterized by its delicacy and softness, which is reflected in the composition of the work. The central figure, the mother of the Virgin, is represented with great sweetness and tenderness, while the baby Jesus, who is on the ground, is surrounded by angels and cherubs who offer him flowers and fruit.
The coloring of the painting is another of its most interesting aspects. Murillo uses a soft and luminous palette, with pastel and warm tones that create an atmosphere of serenity and peace. The background of the work, in green and blue tones, provides a contrast that enhances the central figure.
The history of the painting is also fascinating. It is known that it was commissioned by the Seville Cathedral Chapter to decorate the main altarpiece, and that Murillo worked on it for several years. The work was greatly admired in its day and became one of the artist's most famous.
In addition, there are some little-known aspects of painting. For example, it is said that Murillo used his own wife as a model for the figure of the mother of the Virgin. It has also been speculated that the baby Jesus could be a portrait of his own son.
In short, Birth of the Virgin is an exceptional work of art that combines Murillo's technical mastery with great sensitivity and emotion. Its beauty and its religious message make it one of the most outstanding paintings of the Spanish Baroque.