Expeditions to the Americas, and the often destructive colonization and evangelization that followed, helped the Spanish monarchs to amass a great fortune based on indigenous labor and natural resources.
1400 - 1600
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Expanding the Renaissance: a new Smarthistory initiative
Must all renaissance art history trumpet the achievements of famed artists such as Masaccio, Leonardo and Van Eyck? Can we center other narratives?
The Renaissance in Spain
Stretching from Europe to the Philippines, the Spanish Empire amassed great wealth—and spent lavishly on art.
El Escorial, Spain
The severe exterior of this palace complex belies its highly decorative interior, once filled with art.
El Greco, Adoration of the Shepherds
Wild! Everything seems transient in this otherworldly scene, but El Greco’s bold colors stay with us.
El Greco, View of Toledo
Is that a Van Gogh? Centuries ahead of its time, this radical cityscape captures external and internal conflict.
El Greco, Burial of the Count Orgaz
One of art history’s most famous paintings, this scene remains mysterious. Are we outside at night, or in a chapel?