Claudio Coello - Virgin and Child Adored by St Louis, King of France (1668) 1668

Claudio Coello painted "Virgin and Child Adored by St Louis, King of France" in 1668 using oil paints. Looking closely, you'll notice how Coello masterfully manipulates the oil paint to create a range of textures and sheens. The light glints off the king's armor, for example, contrasting with the soft, matte finish of the Virgin's robes. Oil paints, in their own way, were tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. This wasn't just a matter of aesthetic preference but also a reflection of Spain's wealth, access to materials, and the labor involved in their production. The application of these materials demanded skill and training, traditionally passed down through workshops and guilds. By considering these materials and making, we see how the art of painting isn't just about depicting a scene, but also about engaging with the social and economic forces of the time.