The painting depicts Saint Thomas, the apostle, shown in contemplation. It is a Baroque work characterized by realistic representation of the figure, dramatic chiaroscuro, and deep facial expression typical of Velázquez's work.

Portrait of the Creator

  • Artist

    Diego Velázquez

  • Date of birth and death

    Baptised on 6 June 1599 – Died 6 August 1660

  • Natinality

    Spanish

  • Style

    Baroque

  • Significant works

    The Surrender of Breda, Rokeby Venus, Portrait of Innocent X, Las Meninas, Las Hilanderas

Information about the work

  • Year:

    1618-1620

  • Execution technique:

    Oil on canvas

  • Location:

    Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Orléans, Orlean, France

  • Theme:

    religious painting, portrait of a saint, Baroque

Internal Narrative and Creative Framework

  • Inner Narrative

    The work illustrates the reflection and doubts of Saint Thomas, known for his skepticism, highlighted by facial expression and gestures. The piece shows the inner conflict and spiritual experiences of the apostle.

The key to interpreting the work

The analysis should consider the use of light and shadow, realistic details, and the psychological depth of the figure.

See other works by this artist

Head of a Man

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1616
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An Old Woman Cooking Eggs

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1618
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Breakfast

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1618
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Head of a Girl

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1618
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Kitchen Scene with the Supper in Emmaus

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1618
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Three Musicians

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1618
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Adoration of the Kings

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1619
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Saint John at Patmos

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1619
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The Immaculate Conception

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1619
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Christ in the House of Mary and Martha

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620
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Don Cristobal Suarez de Ribera

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620
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Mother Maria Jeronima de la Fuente

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620
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Saint Paul

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1619-1620
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St. Paul

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1619-1620
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Supper at Emmaus

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620
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The Lunch

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620
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Portrait of a Man with a Goatee

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1620-1622
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Portrait of Don Luis de Gongora y Argote

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1622
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The Surrender of Breda

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1634-1635
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Don Sebastian de Morra

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1645
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The Rokeby Venus

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1644-1648
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Portrait of Pope Innocent X

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1650
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Las Meninas

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1656
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Portrait of the Infanta Margarita

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1658-1660
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Portrait of the Infanta Margarita

  • Artist: Diego Velázquez
  • Year: 1660
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