Murillo: The Self Portraits, National Gallery

The National Gallery is celebrating the 400th anniversary of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, one of the most celebrated painters of the Spanish Golden Age, by unearthing two of his least studied works in an intimate but important exhibition opening this February. The artist’s only two surviving self-portraits will be displayed side by side for the first time in approximately 300 years.

The two self-portraits were produced approximately twenty years apart, and reflect changes in Murillo and in his approach to art. Known primarily as a religious painter, and for his vivid depictions of street children, Murillo’s portraits have often been overlooked by art historians.

Exhibited alongside Murillo's self-portraits are six additional portraits known to be by the artist's hand, and a series of later reproductions of the self-portraits, showcasing their seminal influence on art history throughout Europe.

Curated by Xavier F. Salomon, this display of Murillo portraits reaffirms his long-forgotten genius in this genre.