Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (December 31, 1617 (baptized) – April 3, 1682), was a Spanish painter, one of the most important figures in Baroque painting in Spain. Although he is best known for his religious works, Murillo also produced a considerable number of paintings of contemporary women and children. These lively, realist portraits of flower girls, street urchins, and beggars constitute an extensive and appealing record of the everyday life of...
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Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (December 31, 1617 (baptized) – April 3, 1682), was a Spanish painter, one of the most important figures in Baroque painting in Spain. Although he is best known for his religious works, Murillo also produced a considerable number of paintings of contemporary women and children. These lively, realist portraits of flower girls, street urchins, and beggars constitute an extensive and appealing record of the everyday life of his times.
Murillo was born in Seville, the youngest son in a family of fourteen. His father was the barber and surgeon Gaspar Esteban, and his mother's name was María Pérez Murillo. His parents died when Murillo was still very young, and the artist was largely brought up by his aunt and uncle. Murillo married Beatriz Cabrera in 1645; their first child, named Maria, was born shortly after their marriage. The mother and daughter became the subjects of two of his paintings; Madonna of the Rosary and Madonna and Child.
Murillo began his art...
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