Study for "The Assumption of the Virgin" for San Augustín, Seville
Juan de Valdés Leal·c. 1670–72
Historical Context
Juan de Valdés Leal's study for The Assumption of the Virgin, painted around 1670-72 for the church of San Agustín in Seville, documents the creation of a major altarpiece by the most dramatically expressive painter of the Sevillian Baroque. Valdés Leal's turbulent, emotionally charged style contrasted with the softer manner of his Sevillian contemporary Murillo. This oil sketch preserves the dynamic energy of his initial conception.
Technical Analysis
The oil-on-wood study demonstrates Valdés Leal's characteristically bold, agitated brushwork with dynamic figures ascending in a spiral composition. The dramatic lighting and rapid execution capture the visionary energy that distinguishes his altarpiece designs from the more serene Sevillian convention.
Provenance
George Brown (Christies, London sale, 12-14-1917, lot 129, as A. Cano); Viscount Lascelles, Sixth Earl of Harewood, Harewood House, Leeds (1917, 1980); (Agnews, London); George Brown (Christies, London sale , 12-14-1917, lot 129, as A. Cano);; Viscount Lascelles, Sixth Earl of Harewood, Harewood House, Leeds (1917, 1980);; (Agnews, London), sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art, 1987.
