Murillo is considered one of the great geniuses of the Spanish Baroque. His work has withstood the test of time due to the deep emotional connection he establishes with the viewer. Unlike other artists of his time, Murillo manages to capture the divine and the human in a unique way, leaving an indelible mark on the history of art. His naturalistic approach and sensitivity to the everyday make his work a window to empathy and reflection.
Murillo and Sentimentalism in the Baroque period
The Baroque is an era known for its theatricality and the visual excesses shown in religious works. However, when we are confronted with a painting by Murillo, these characteristics remain in the background. The Sevillian painter knew that the key to his success lay in the ability of his works to connect emotionally with the viewer. Instead of resorting to grandiose and dramatic elements, Murillo opted for depicting everyday, sentimental moments, an approach that made him especially beloved by his audience. He succeeded in humanizing religious scenes, presenting divine characters in a way that allows the viewer to identify with them.
The Holy Family with a Little Bird: A Model Family
One of the most representative paintings of Murillo’s ouvre is The Holy Family with a Little Bird. This portrait of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and the child Jesus has deeply resonated with the collective imagination. Murillo presents it in a naturalistic and accessible context, but without losing spiritual depth.
The success of this painting lies in its ability to reflect a perfect family model, in a simple but tender scene. It is not a set of ideal or grandiose figures, but a human family, with a bond that transcends the merely physical to reach the emotional. This work invites reflection, allowing us to see divinity through the eyes of relatable and real characters.
The Portrait of Christ: Simplicity and Elegance
Another example of Murillo’s ability to transform the religious into something close and tangible can be found in one of his works that will be auctioned on March 25 at Setdart. In this portrait of Christ, Murillo chooses an austere representation, without ornaments or dramatic contrasts that divert the viewer’s attention. Christ’s face is the absolute protagonist of the work, and his gaze, deep and sweet, establishes a direct dialogue with the observer.
There are no halos of light or flashes that deify the figure. On the contrary, the simplicity of the painting and the lack of overloaded elements allow the figure of Christ to be perceived as an ordinary man, but with a message of compassion and empathy.
Murillo in the Context of Auctions
Today, Murillo’s works continue to be highly appreciated and in demand in the contemporary art market. Acquiring a work by Murillo is, without a doubt, a safe investment. At Setdart, we always recommend to count on the advice of our experts. If you are interested in buying or selling a work by Murillo, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to offer you all our experience and support.
