Fray Hortensio Félix Paravicino 1609

El Greco painted Fray Hortensio Félix Paravicino using oil on canvas, a common medium for portraiture at the time. The character of oil paint – its viscosity, the way it reflects light, the ability to create smooth gradations – allows for a remarkable likeness and an almost palpable sense of the textures of skin, fabric, and even the paper of the book held in the sitter’s hands. El Greco would have built up these effects layer by layer, carefully mixing pigments with oil to achieve the desired colors and tones. His mastery is evident in the way he captures the light on the fabric and the subtle shadows that define Paravicino’s features. While El Greco’s virtuosity is apparent, the true marvel of this painting lies in the transformative power of human labor and the tradition of skill it represents. It's not just paint on canvas; it's a testament to human ingenuity and dedication. This reminds us to consider all forms of making, whether in the fine arts or the crafts, as equally valuable expressions of human creativity and skill.