Little Homeschool Blessings: Artist Study: Diego Velazquez

We are studying Diego Velazquez this term.

1599-1660

Velazquez is most known for his ability to capture his subject's feelings. He started as an apprentice doing chores and having lessons. While still a teenager, he became a master artist. He became close friends with Phillip IV of Spain and often painted Spanish royalty. But he also painted portraits of people with everyday occupations. He spent 37 years as official court painter and head decorator. He was made a knight.

Aesop 1639-40

Juan de Pareja, 1630

Juan de Pareja was Velazquez's slave, helper and assistant. Paperwork exists that shows how Velazquez freed him.

Joseph's Coat Brought to Jacob, 1650

Las Meninas (The Maids of Honor), 1656

This is Velazquez's most famous painting. It is life size and Velazquez has painted himself getting ready to paint. In the mirror behind him, you can see the king and queen.

Old Woman Frying Eggs, 1618

The Water Seller of Seville, 1623

In this painting, the crystal glass and the drops of water on the outside of the jug look amazingly lifelike against the rough clothing of the water Seller.

Wishing you homeschool blessings,

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4 comments:

Blossom Barden (NorthLaurel) said...: I enjoyed this post as we are studying Velázquez also. We are a bit behind with him this term; this week is his painting of Juan de Pareja. I appreciated the info you have in this post.; February 9, 2015 at 9:23 AM
Gena at ichoosejoy.org said...: What a great artist!
--Gena; February 10, 2015 at 6:52 AM
Bethany said...: Thanks! He really lead an interesting life and it is so cool that he became such good friends with the royal family.; February 10, 2015 at 8:55 AM
Bethany said...: Yes. The thing I really notice is the dark backgrounds in contrast to the focus of the subject.; February 10, 2015 at 8:57 AM