Altarpiece by Spanish Dominican goes on show in London
The skill of Dominican artist Fray Juan Bautista Maíno OP (1581–1649) is being displayed at the National Gallery in the next few months.
This is a rare chance to view two panels from the altarpiece of the Dominican convent of San Pedro Martir, Toledo. The paintings date from 1612-14, with Maíno taking vows as a Dominican brother before the completion of the works.
A lesser-known artist of exceptional talent
Maíno is lesser known as an artist, but his skill as a painter combines the naturalism of Caravaggio with the refined palette of Gentileschi, as well as the more classicising style of Carracci and Reni, both of whom Maíno knew personally.
The presence of the Dominican Friars in Toledo
The great Dominican convent of San Pedro Martir, Toledo, Spain, was founded in 1230 by royal initiative, Fernando III, under the patronage of St. Paul and was located in the Huerta Granadal. As a result of property bequeathed to the friars, the convent was moved to the very centre of the city in 1407.
The altarpiece, which is currently housed in Madrid’s main museum, Museo del Prado, comprises two panels, The Adoration of the Kings and The Adoration of the Shepherds.
Details of the Exhibition
Maíno’s Adorations: Heaven on Earth, at the National Gallery (Room 1).
28 September 2016 – 29 January 2017
Admission free
