Antonio Ponce facts for kids

Still-Life with Flowers in a Vase and Fruit in a Bowl on a Ledge, 1640-60

Antonio Ponce (born around 1608 in Valladolid, died 1677 in Madrid) was a Spanish artist. He was a Baroque painter, known for his amazing pictures of still-lifes and flower garlands.

Life of Antonio Ponce

Antonio Ponce's family moved to Madrid when he was very young. In 1624, when his father passed away, Antonio became an apprentice. He joined the art workshop of Juan van der Hamen. Antonio stayed there for three years, learning how to paint.

After finishing his training, Antonio married Francisca de Alfaro. She was Juan van der Hamen's niece. When Hamen died in 1631, Antonio likely kept the workshop open. He continued painting in a similar style to his teacher. This sometimes makes it hard to tell their paintings apart. However, after 1630, Antonio started signing some of his own artworks.

Early Career and Guild Membership

Kitchen Still Life (mid-17th century)

In 1633, Antonio Ponce was one of several painters whose workshops were checked by the government. Paintings of King Philip IV and the Royal Family were looked at. Famous artists like Vicente Carducho and Diego Velázquez checked their quality. Luckily, nothing was found to be wrong with Antonio's work.

The next year, in 1634, Antonio became a member of the Painters' Guild. This was an important group for artists. It showed he was a recognized and respected painter.

Working for the Royal Family

The Month of May (1635–40)

Antonio Ponce often worked on special projects. In 1637, he helped create decorations for the arrival of the Princess of Carignano. A year later, he worked with another artist, Francisco Barrera. They made decorations for the Palacio del Buen Retiro, a royal palace.

In 1649, Antonio worked with Barrera again. They prepared for the visit of Queen Mariana of Austria. They even worked with a sculptor named Manuel Correa. They created ten golden figures of kings and emperors for the event.

Antonio Ponce continued to paint until his death in 1677. Many of his later works are signed. This helps us know which paintings are truly his.

See also

In Spanish: Antonio Ponce para niños