Antonio Ricci (painter) facts for kids
Antonio Ricci was a talented painter from Italy who became famous in Spain during the Baroque period. He was born around 1565 in Ancona, Italy, and passed away around 1635 in Madrid, Spain. He is especially known for his portraits.
Life and Work
Antonio Ricci moved to Spain in 1583. He came with other artists, including Federico Zuccaro. They were invited to help decorate a big palace called El Escorial. After about six months, their work there ended. But Antonio decided to stay in Spain.
In 1588, Antonio married Gabriela de Chaves de Guevara. They settled down in Madrid, the capital city. He often appeared in the city's official records. A famous poet, Alonso de Castillo Solórzano, even wrote some verses about an "Antonio Riche," which was likely him.
Family and Art Studio
Antonio and Gabriela had eleven children together. Two of their sons, Juan (born in 1600) and Francisco (born in 1614), also became well-known painters.
Not many of Antonio Ricci's paintings have survived until today. However, we know he ran a busy art studio. Many people hired him for paintings. One of his important clients was Juan de Ribera, a high-ranking church leader.
Some of his identified works include portraits of the Dukes of Ciriza. He also painted Sister Margarita de la Cruz. She was the daughter of Emperor Maximilian II. This painting can be seen in the Convent of Las Descalzas Reales. A painting called "Penitent Magdalene" with his signature has also been saved. Antonio Ricci also did smaller jobs, like painting 72 "slabs" with angels for a special religious container called a reliquary.
Life in Madrid
In Madrid, Antonio Ricci stayed connected with important thinkers and artists at the royal court. He helped try to start an art school in Madrid. This school would have been similar to the famous Academy of San Lucas in Rome.
In 1616, he was given an interesting job. He became Madrid's official "Inspector of Cleaning and Paving." This meant he helped make sure the city's streets were clean and well-maintained. Later in his life, Antonio faced some financial difficulties. His wife, Gabriela, passed away in 1635. It is believed Antonio was still alive at that time, but we don't know much more about his later years.
See also
In Spanish: Antonio Ricci para niños
