Description
The painting "Apostle St Matthew" by the artist El Greco is a masterpiece that reflects the skill and unique style of the artist. The work, which measures 97 x 77 cm, was painted in the 16th century and is considered one of the best representations of San Mateo in the history of art.
El Greco's artistic style is very evident in this work, with his use of elongated lines and stylized figures. The figure of Saint Matthew is represented with a great amount of detail, from his beard and hair to his tunic and book. El Greco used a loose, flowing brushwork technique to create a sense of movement and energy in the work.
The composition of the painting is very interesting, with Saint Matthew sitting on a chair and holding his holy book in his left hand. The figure is surrounded by a series of symbolic objects, such as an angel holding a crown of thorns and a chalice. These elements add a layer of depth and meaning to the work.
The use of color in "Apostle St Matthew" is vibrant and emotional. El Greco used a palette of bright and saturated colors, which contrast with the dark background of the painting. This technique creates a sense of drama and tension in the work, which is very characteristic of El Greco's style.
The history of the painting is fascinating, as it is believed to have been created for a private chapel in Toledo, Spain. The work was commissioned by a Spanish nobleman and was kept in his private collection for many years. It was eventually acquired by a museum in New York in the 20th century, where it still stands today.
In short, "Apostle St Matthew" is an impressive work that reflects El Greco's unique style and artistic skill. Its composition, color and symbolic details make it a fascinating and intriguing work of art for lovers of art and history.