Early Life and Training

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a prominent Spanish Baroque painter, was born in Seville, Spain, in late December 1617 and baptized on January 1, 1618. He was the youngest son of Gaspar Esteban and María Pérez, with a family of fourteen children. After his parents' death in 1627 and 1628, Murillo became a ward of his sister's husband, Juan Agustín Lagares. Murillo began his art studies in Seville under Juan del Castillo, a relative of his mother, who was also an artist. His early works were influenced by the strongly realist approach of Zurbarán, Jusepe de Ribera, and Alonzo Cano.

Artistic Career and Style

Murillo's artistic style evolved over time, initially influenced by Flemish painting and the "Treatise on Sacred Images" of Molanus. As he matured, his work developed a polished style that suited the bourgeois and aristocratic tastes of the time, particularly in his Roman Catholic religious works.

• Young Man with a Basket of Fruit or Personification of Summer (c. 1640-50), showcasing his early, realist approach.
• The Young Beggar (c. 1645, Musée du Louvre, Paris, France), demonstrating the influence of Velázquez.
• St. Jerome (c. 1650-52), exemplifying his mature, softly luminous style.

Museums and Collections Featuring Murillo's Work

Murillo's paintings can be found in various museums worldwide, including:

• The Museo del Prado (Madrid, Spain)
• Hermitage Museum (Saint Petersburg, Russia)
• Wallace Collection (London)
• Timken Museum of Art (San Diego, featuring Christ on the Cross)
• Krannert Art Museum (Champaign, Illinois, featuring Christ After the Flagellation)

Legacy and Influence

Murillo had numerous pupils and followers, ensuring his reputation in Spain and fame throughout Europe. Artists influenced by his style include Gainsborough and Greuze. Explore more of Murillo's works on WahooArt: * Bartolomé Esteban Murillo * Colección Andrés Blaisten (Mexico) (featuring Latin American artworks, including some influenced by Murillo's style)