Thomas of Villanova, Archbishop of Valencia Distributing Alms to the Poor

ca. 1620–45

Not on view

Pedro Orrente worked mainly in and around Valencia. He is best known for his large drawings executed in red wash, of which this is a fine example. Thomas of Villanova (1488–1555) was a Spanish friar of the Augustinian order. Because of his many acts of charity, he is known as the "father of the poor." Here, Villanova is shown distributing alms to those kneeling before him. He is depicted again at right performing a similar act. The drawing is not related to a known painting and seems to be one of his many independent sheets. At the bottom of the sheet is the inscription "14Rs," the price for which the drawing sold, presumably in the seventeenth century.

Artwork Details

Title: Thomas of Villanova, Archbishop of Valencia Distributing Alms to the Poor
Artist: Pedro Orrente (Spanish, Murcia 1580–1645 Valencia)
Date: ca. 1620–45
Medium: Brush and red wash over black chalk
Dimensions: 10-13/16 x 15-15/16 in. (27.5 x 40.5 cm)
Classification: Drawings
Credit Line: Bequest of Harry G. Sperling, 1971
Object Number: 1975.131.217
Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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