El Greco

El Greco, whose real name was Domenikos Theotokopoulos, was a painter of Greek origin who is considered one of the greatest artists of the Spanish Renaissance. He was born in Crete in 1541 and trained in the Byzantine tradition of painting, which is characterized by its highly stylized, flat figures and use of gold leaf. El Greco later moved to Italy, where he was influenced by the works of Michelangelo and Tintoretto, before settling in Spain in the late 16th century.

El Greco’s paintings are known for their highly individualistic style, which is characterized by elongated figures, dramatic use of light and shade, and vivid, expressive colors. His works often have a spiritual or religious theme, and are marked by their intense emotional power and otherworldly quality. El Greco’s use of intense colors and dramatic lighting effects create a sense of heightened drama and emotion, and his works are renowned for their ability to evoke a sense of awe and wonder in the viewer.

Some of El Greco’s most famous works include “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz,” a monumental painting in the church of Santo Tomé in Toledo, and “The View of Toledo,” a landscape painting that captures the city of Toledo in a brooding, stormy atmosphere. Although his works were not always well-received during his lifetime, El Greco’s legacy has endured over the centuries, and he is now celebrated as one of the most innovative and visionary painters of the Renaissance.

Explore El Greco by Subject

• Nativity and the Holy Family: The Adoration of the Shepherds and The Holy Family with Mary Magdalen.
• Christ and Devotion: Christ Healing the Blind and Christ Carrying the Cross.
• Portraits: Cardinal Fernando Niño de Guevara and Portrait of an Old Man.
• Visions and Landscape: The Vision of Saint John and View of Toledo.

Learn more about our giclée prints, or browse the El Greco collection below.