Annunciation (El Greco, Madrid) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Annunciation |
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| Artist | El Greco |
| Year | 1609 |
| Medium | oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 294 cm × 204 cm (116 in × 80 in) |
| Location | Private collection, Madrid |
The Annunciation is a famous painting from 1609 by a Spanish artist known as El Greco. This large artwork is now part of a private collection in Madrid, Spain. It shows a very important moment from the Bible.
This painting is actually a smaller piece of a much larger artwork. It was originally made for a special chapel at the Hospital de Tavera in Toledo, Spain. El Greco died in 1614, so his son, Jorge Manuel, might have finished some parts of it.
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What is the Annunciation?
The "Annunciation" is a popular subject in art. It shows the moment when the angel Gabriel tells the Virgin Mary that she will have a baby, Jesus. This event is very important in Christian beliefs.
Artists like El Greco often painted this scene. They wanted to show the surprise and wonder of Mary. They also wanted to show the angel's important message.
Who was El Greco?
El Greco was a Greek painter, sculptor, and architect. His real name was Doménikos Theotokópoulos. He was born in Crete, which was part of Venice at the time. He later moved to Spain and became very famous there.
El Greco is known for his unique style. His paintings often have long, stretched-out figures. He used bright, unusual colors and dramatic lighting. His art is a mix of Byzantine traditions and Western painting styles. He painted many religious artworks for churches and hospitals.
The Story of This Painting
This specific "Annunciation" painting was not meant to be a standalone piece. It was part of a big altarpiece for the chapel at the Hospital de Tavera. An altarpiece is a large artwork placed behind the altar in a church.
Over time, the original altarpiece was taken apart. This painting is what remains of one section. It shows how skilled El Greco was, even in a small part of a larger work.
Different Versions of the Annunciation
El Greco painted the Annunciation many times throughout his career. He often revisited themes he liked. This 1609 version is a variation of an earlier work. That earlier painting was part of the Doña María de Aragón Altarpiece.
Another well-known version of the Annunciation by El Greco is in the Prado Museum in Madrid. Each version has its own special details. They all show El Greco's unique artistic vision.
Who Finished the Artwork?
El Greco passed away in April 1614. This painting was made in 1609, so it was almost finished. However, it is possible that his son, Jorge Manuel Theotocópuli, helped complete it.
Jorge Manuel was also a painter. He often worked with his father. It was common for artists' workshops to have family members help with projects. This makes the painting even more interesting, as it might be a joint effort.
Images for kids
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Old photo of chapel interior
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Annunciation reconstruction with Concert of Angels
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Prado version of the Annunciation
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See also
In Spanish: La Anunciación (El Greco, Retablos del Hospital Tavera) para niños
