The Burial of the Count of Orgaz - El Greco

Oil painting by El Greco, painted in 1586, is a masterpiece of Spanish Mannerism. This painting is known for its complex iconography and innovative use of perspective and composition. The central angles of the work are arranged in such a way that they suggest the shape of a womb, symbolizing that death is a new birth into heaven. At the top, the Virgin Mary can be seen on the left and John the Baptist on the right, acting as midwives awaiting the "child" about to be born. The resurrected Jesus, dressed in white, is in the background of the scene, playing the role of the expectant father in joyful anticipation of this new birth.

This symbolic interpretation reinforces the idea of resurrection and eternal life, central themes in religious painting. renaissance and Mannerism. El Greco combines the naturalism with mysticism, creating a work that transcends time and space to offer a profound spiritual vision. His use of color and light, combined with elongated and expressive figures, has influenced generations of later artists, including expressionists and modernists of the 20th century. The work not only celebrates the life and death of the Count of Orgaz, but also offers a philosophical and theological reflection on the transcendence and immortality of the soul.