The Portraits of El Greco

This paper concentrates on the portraits of Dominicos Theotocopoulos, widely known as El Greco. An examination of his early studies in Crete, the process of icon making and his work in Italy provide a framework for the later paintings he produced in Spain. Initially, Byzantine icon-making and Western traditions of painting were combined in creating his first style of painting, which was the base of his art even during the last stages of his life when his paintings changed dramatically. European traditions of portraiture are, therefore, examined as quite important, since they created the guidelines for both patrons and artists in most artistic European centres. They are thus, analysed in order to establish the various influences El Greco drew from in order to create his own, distinctive style. El Greco's secular and religious portraits are looked upon in relation to the rest of his work as well as the creations of other Italian and Spanish artists of the time. His portrayal of saints in comparison to his portrayal of people he was acquainted with is also a considered factor. The discussion of all the paintings will lead to the legacy he left behind and the influence he had on artists of a later period such as Francis Bacon.