St. Justina and St. Rufina 1675

Bartolomé Estebán Murillo’s canvas portrays Saint Justina and Saint Rufina, holding the Giralda tower in Seville, Spain. The image presents two women who, according to Catholic tradition, were martyred for refusing to worship pagan gods. Looking at this painting, we might ask why the artist chose to represent the saints with the Giralda, Seville’s iconic bell tower. Painted in the 17th century, this work is a product of its time, reflecting the cultural and religious values of Seville. The tower symbolizes the city's resilience and faith during a time of social and political change. Murillo was one of the founders of Seville's Academy of Fine Arts. His role within that institution influenced not only his own work but the artistic output of the entire region. By delving into historical records, religious texts, and the history of Seville, we start to reveal the intricate web of meaning embedded in this artwork. Art is more than just aesthetics; it’s a mirror reflecting the beliefs, struggles, and aspirations of a society.