A Rare Treasure: Orihuela’s Velázquez Painting
Orihuela boasts a unique distinction: it is one of only 28 cities worldwide to possess a painting by the renowned Spanish Baroque artist, Diego Velázquez.
This extraordinary artwork, titled “The Temptation of Saint Thomas,” was rediscovered early in the 20th century. Initially catalogued as a work by Velázquez in 1960, its attribution was confirmed in the 1990s by historian Javier Sánchez Portas.
According to Sánchez Portas’ research, the painting was a gift from King Philip IV’s confessor to the College of Santo Domingo in Orihuela in 1633. This discovery sheds light on the timeline of the painting’s creation, placing it between 1631 and early 1633.
While Velázquez is primarily known for his portraits, “The Temptation of Saint Thomas” is a remarkable example of his religious painting. Sánchez Portas suggests that the artist may have been influenced by Friar Antonio de Sotomayor, the confessor of Philip IV and a benefactor of the College of Santo Domingo.
The painting’s stylistic elements, including its diagonal composition, play of light and shadow, and intentional modifications, are hallmarks of Velázquez’s masterful technique. The subject matter, depicting the temptation of Saint Thomas Aquinas, reflects the painting’s intended purpose as a spiritual lesson for students at the University of Orihuela.
“The Temptation of Saint Thomas” has not only become a cultural icon for Orihuela but has also attracted international attention. The painting has been exhibited at prestigious museums like the Louvre and the Prado, showcasing Orihuela’s rich artistic heritage.
As Orihuela prepares to celebrate the 425th anniversary of Velázquez’s birth, “The Temptation of Saint Thomas” remains a cherished symbol of the city’s connection to artistic greatness.
