José de Ribera

José de Ribera was a Spanish painter from the 17th century known for his dramatic Baroque style. He specialized in realistic figures and intense, emotionally charged scenes, often depicting religious subjects, saints, and martyrs. Ribera was influenced by Italian artists like Caravaggio, which is evident in his use of strong contrasts of light and shadow (chiaroscuro) and visceral details. His works stand out for their bold realism and psychological depth, contributing significantly to Spanish and European Baroque art. Ribera’s paintings continue to be admired for their technical skill and powerful storytelling.