Saint Ildefonsus (El Greco, Illescas) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Ildefonsus |
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| Year | 1597-1603 |
| Medium | oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 112 cm × 64 cm (44 in × 25 in) |
| Location | Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad, Illescas |
Saint Ildefonsus is a famous painting created by the artist El Greco between 1597 and 1603. It was made for a special place called the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad in Illescas, Toledo, Spain. The painting is still there today.
It shows Ildefonsus, who was a saint and a bishop of Toledo. He is shown writing in his private prayer room, also known as an oratory, inside Toledo Cathedral. He might be writing one of his important texts about his beliefs concerning the Virgin Mary. Saint Ildefonsus is looking to his left, as if getting ideas from a statue of the Virgin Mary. This statue was likely the Virgin of Charity of Illescas, which he kept in his oratory.
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About the Painting
This artwork is an oil painting on canvas. It measures 112 centimeters tall and 64 centimeters wide. El Greco, a Greek painter who spent most of his career in Spain, created this piece during a very productive period of his life.
Who Was Saint Ildefonsus?
Saint Ildefonsus lived in the 7th century. He was an important religious leader in Spain. He served as the Archbishop of Toledo. He is known for his writings and his strong faith. Many stories are told about his life and his devotion.
What Does the Painting Show?
The painting captures a quiet moment. Saint Ildefonsus is deep in thought, focused on his writing. His expression suggests deep concentration and inspiration. The way El Greco uses light and shadow makes the scene feel very spiritual. The statue of the Virgin Mary is shown as a source of his ideas and faith.
Images for kids
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The painting Saint Ildefonsus by El Greco.
See also
