The Prado Museum in Madrid is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of Spanish art in the world. It’s a treasure trove of masterpieces, ranging from works by Goya and Velazquez to El Greco and Murillo.
However, what many people don’t know is that the museum also holds an array of other works, including sculptures, decorative arts, and prints. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the fascinating objects that can be found in the collection of the Prado.
Prints
One of the most interesting aspects of the Prado’s collection is its extensive holdings of prints. The museum has over 70,000 prints dating from the 15th century to the present day.
These include woodcuts, engravings, etchings, lithographs, and screenprints. Many of these works are by well-known artists such as Rembrandt and Goya.
Goya’s Caprichos
Perhaps one of the most famous print series in the Prado’s collection is Goya’s Caprichos. These 80 prints were created by Goya in 1799 and offer a satirical critique of Spanish society at that time. They depict everything from corrupt politicians to foolish aristocrats to superstitious peasants.
Sculpture
In addition to its paintings and prints, the Prado also has an impressive collection of sculptures. These range from ancient Roman busts to Baroque religious figures.
Ancient Roman Portrait Busts
One highlight of the sculpture collection is a series of ancient Roman portrait busts. These marble sculptures date from the 1st century AD and depict various emperors and other notable figures from Roman history.
Decorative Arts
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that the Prado also has a collection of decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. These objects offer a fascinating glimpse into the material culture of Spain and its colonial empire.
Colonial Silver
One standout example is the collection of colonial silver, which includes objects from Mexico, Peru, and other parts of Spanish America. These intricate pieces range from chalices and candlesticks to tableware and jewelry.
- Overall, the collection of the Prado Museum in Madrid is truly impressive.
- In addition to its renowned paintings by Spanish masters, it also boasts an array of prints, sculptures, and decorative arts.
- Whether you’re interested in ancient Roman busts or satirical prints by Goya, there’s something for everyone at the Prado.
So if you find yourself in Madrid with some free time on your hands, be sure to pay a visit to this world-class museum!