Saint Martin and the Beggar (El Greco) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Martin and the Beggar |
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| Spanish: San Martín y el mendigo | |
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| Artist | El Greco |
| Year | c. 1597-1599 |
| Type | Oil paint on canvas |
| Dimensions | 193.5 cm × 103 cm (76.2 in × 41 in) |
| Location | National Gallery of Art, Washington DC |
Saint Martin and the Beggar is a famous painting by the Greek artist El Greco. He painted it around 1597 to 1599. This artwork is currently kept at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. The painting shows a well-known story about a Christian saint named Martin of Tours. In the story, Saint Martin shares his warm cloak with a person in need.
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The Story Behind the Painting
This painting tells a story from the life of Martin of Tours, who later became a saint. One cold day, Martin was a Roman soldier. He was riding his horse when he saw a poor man. The man was shivering and had no warm clothes.
Martin felt sorry for the beggar. He took his own military cloak, which was very valuable. He then used his sword to cut the cloak in half. Martin gave one half of his cloak to the beggar. This act of kindness became a famous legend. It shows how important it is to help others.
About the Artist: 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 the Republic of Venice at the time. He later moved to Spain.
El Greco is known for his unique style. His paintings often feature long, thin figures. He used bright, unusual colors and dramatic lighting. His art is a mix of Byzantine traditions and Western painting styles. He is considered a master of the Mannerist art movement.
Different Versions of the Painting
El Greco painted more than one version of Saint Martin and the Beggar. The main painting, which is very large, is in Washington, D.C. It shows Saint Martin on a white horse, looking down at the beggar. The beggar is looking up at him.
El Greco also created a smaller version of this painting. This smaller artwork is now part of the collection at the Art Institute of Chicago. It shows the same scene but is a bit different in size and details. Both paintings capture the powerful moment of sharing and compassion.
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El Greco, Saint Martin and the Beggar, c. 1597–1600, 110 × 63 cm (43.3 × 24.8 in), Art Institute of Chicago
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See also
- List of works by El Greco
