Pórtico de la Gloria, Santiago de Compostela Cathedral 1849

Jenaro Pérez Villaamil's painting depicts the Pórtico de la Gloria in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. It's rendered in oil paints, a traditional medium that allows Villaamil to capture the intricate details of the cathedral’s stonework. The rough, heavy texture of the stone, shaped with chisels and hammers, is contrasted with the delicate rendering of human figures in the painting. Villaamil’s technique mirrors the labor-intensive craft of stonemasonry involved in creating the portal itself, emphasizing the amount of time and physical work involved. This monumental sculpture was a collective endeavor that required the cooperation of numerous artisans and laborers. The painting captures not only the architecture, but the human element, reminding us of the social context in which such monumental works are created and appreciated. The subject, material, and its production are all inextricably linked to the social and religious significance of the cathedral. By focusing on the craft of the Pórtico, Villaamil elevates its status, challenging the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft.