Francisco Rizi facts for kids
Francisco Rizi (born April 9, 1614 – died August 2, 1685) was a famous Spanish painter. His full name was Francisco Ricci de Guevara. He came from an Italian family but was born in Spain. Rizi is known for his beautiful paintings, especially those in the Baroque style.
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About Francisco Rizi
Francisco Rizi was born in Madrid, Spain. His father, Antonio Ricci, was also a painter. Antonio came from Italy to work on decorations at El Escorial, a famous Spanish palace. Francisco's brother, Juan, also became a painter.
Early Life and Training
Francisco started learning to paint in his father's workshop. Later, he studied with Vicente Carducho, another painter from Italy. Carducho helped Francisco make important connections at the Royal Court in 1634.
After Carducho died in 1638, Francisco worked with other artists. They created decorations for the Golden Salon at the Royal Alcázar of Madrid. Sadly, these artworks were destroyed in a big fire in 1734.
Becoming a Baroque Painter
Between 1640 and 1649, Francisco Rizi became one of the first Spanish painters to use the Baroque style. This style often uses dramatic movement and rich colors. A great example is a large altarpiece he made for the Capuchins. It looked similar to works by famous painters like Pieter Paul Rubens.
In 1649, he helped decorate for the arrival of Mariana of Austria. She was coming to become the new Queen. This work helped him get noticed by the Royal Court.
Work at Toledo Cathedral
Francisco also worked a lot for Toledo Cathedral. He created many paintings and frescoes there. Frescoes are paintings done on wet plaster. He did important work for the famous "Chapel of the Eighths." In 1653, he became the official "Painter of the Cathedral." He kept this job until he died.
Painter to the King
In 1656, Francisco Rizi was officially named a "Painter to the King." This meant he got many jobs from religious groups. He was very busy throughout the 1660s. He also opened a workshop where young artists learned to paint. One of his students was Claudio Coello.
For many years, Francisco was also in charge of stage decorations. He worked for the theater at Buen Retiro Palace. In 1661, he was allowed to live in the Royal Alcázar.
Later Career
In 1671, Francisco hoped to become the Chamber Painter for Queen Mariana. But the job went to Juan Carreño de Miranda instead. Two years later, Rizi complained about this, saying he deserved it more. In 1675, the Queen gave him a small pension. However, his standing at court was never fully the same. He still had a good relationship with religious leaders.
In 1685, he received a big job to paint a huge canvas at El Escorial. It was called "The Holy Form." He died suddenly while working on it. His student, Claudio Coello, finished the painting for him.
Famous Works
- Decorations (with Pedro Nuñez) at the theater in the Real Alcázar of Madrid (1648).
- Scenery for the theater of the Parque del Buen Retiro.
- A sketch for an altarpiece for the Host of Gorkum. The final paintings were done by Claudio Coello.
- "Auto de Fé en la plaza Mayor de Madrid."
See also
In Spanish: Francisco Rizi para niños
