El Greco

El Greco, born in 1541 and active until his death in 1614, was a Greek painter who is known for his elongated figures, dramatic use of colour and light, and his mystical and spiritual themes. He is recognized as a master of Mannerism, a style that emphasized heightened emotion, distorted forms, and a departure from Renaissance ideals. El Greco's paintings are characterized by their unique blend of Venetian colour and Florentine drawing, along with a sense of spirituality and emotionality. His iconic works include "The Burial of Count Orgaz" and "View of Toledo," which showcase his distinctive style and captivating storytelling.