Exhibition: The Sacred Made Real
‘The Sacred Made Real’ is an exhibition at The National Gallery - the Sainsbury's Wing - presenting religious art from the Spanish Golden Age (1600-1700).
The religious artists of 17th century Spain pursued a quest for realism creating works to inspire devotion among believers.
Polychrome wooden sculptures and paintings, including masterpieces by Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Zurbarán, are displayed together for the very first time.
The Sacred Made Real exhibition is now open and runs until 24 January 2010.
Video
In a specially recorded video, Archbishop Vincent Nichols reflects on the meaning and significance of Spanish religious works of art featured in the exhibition.
The video, which was recorded during the exhibition’s press preview, features Archbishop Vincent Nichols talking to art critics about three specific works of art.
Click here to watch the video.
Featured works of art
Saint Francis standing in Ecstasy
Pedro de Mena (1663)
Mary Magdalene meditating on the Crucifixion
Pedro de Mena (1664)
Dead Christ
Gregorio Fernandez (c. 1625–30)
