Cano was a versatile Spanish artist who excelled in painting, sculpture, and architecture. Initially trained by his father Miguel, a carpenter and altarpiece maker, he studied under Francisco Pacheco in Seville with Diego Velázquez. After establishing himself in Seville, Cano moved to Madrid in 1638 at the invitation of the Count-Duke of Olivares. There, his style developed from the Sevillian naturalism of his youth to incorporate Venetian and Flemish influences. He returned to Granada in 1652, taking up a position at the city’s cathedral, where he continued to paint religious works despite conflicts with church authorities.
Alonso Cano
1601 - 1667
Works by Alonso Cano
The Virgin Mary, crowned with stars and standing on the moon, is surrounded by her attributes, which include a temple, fountain, and walled garden. Bowing her head, she presses her fingers together in prayer, eyes half-closed. All around, cherubs swirl in the clouds as a wash of light emanates fr...