Giovanni Battista Tiepolo
1767, Oil paint on canvas
Princes Gate bequest, 1978
The Italian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo made these sketches in preparation for three of the seven altarpieces he painted for the Church of San Pascual in Aranjuez, Spain. The church was the first important building project undertaken by the Spanish king Charles III (reigned 1759–1788). It was built for monks known as ‘barefoot’ Franciscans, and the subjects chosen for Tiepolo’s altarpieces reflect their austere interpretation of Christianity. The exception is the sketch on the left, which depicts Charles Borromeo, the king’s namesake and the friars’ protector, wearing rich garments.
The paintings were Tiepolo’s last major commission. They hung in the church for only a few years. The king soon found them old-fashioned and had them removed.
From left to right:
- Saint Charles Borromeo Meditating on the Crucifix
- The Immaculate Conception
- The Stigmatisation of Saint Francis
Photo Ⓒ The Courtauld