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Arts Intel Report

Zurbarán

Francisco de Zurbarán, The Crucified Christ with a Painter, c. 1650.

May 2 – Aug 23, 2026
Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, UK

In 1630, the Spanish artist Francisco de Zurbarán (1598–1664) was appointed painter to King Philip IV of Spain. According to legend, the enthralled ruler was known to put his hand on Zurbarán’s shoulder and say, “Painter to the king, king of painters.” Because the work was characterized by a harsh, realist style and a forceful use of chiaroscuro, Zurbarán was often called the “Spanish Caravaggio.” Fabrics were his specialty, from extravagant clothing to the austere robes of monks. This exhibition, the first U.K. show on Zurbarán, brings together renowned paintings from collections around the world. —Elena Clavarino

Photo: © Photographic Archive Museo Nacional del Prado