Diego de Silva y Velázquez

Diego de Silva y Velázquez was a renowned Spanish painter of the 17th century, celebrated for his skillful portraiture and mastery of realism. His work captures the personalities and social nuances of his subjects with lively detail and sophisticated use of light and shadow. Velázquez served as the court painter to King Philip IV, and his paintings often depict members of the royal family and court life. His most famous works include "Las Meninas" and "The Surrender of Breda," which exemplify his innovative approach to composition and perspective, influencing generations of artists and securing his place as one of history's greatest painters.