Francis Davis Millet (Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, 1846 - 1912)
Semana Santa, Seville, 1888
Oil on panel, 17.8 x 8.9 cm (7 x 3 1/2 in.)
This narrow, vertical oil painting depicts a procession during Holy Week in Spain. The procession travels on a city street with tall buildings on both sides, creating a close and crowded scene. It appears to be evening, with a dull blue sky and high moon in the background, and the streetlights lit. In the center, the focal point is a float, carrying a seated statue of a religious figure and many tall, flaming candles. Next to and ahead of the float are many spectators. They appear to be wearing long garments and hats, and some are carrying flares. The buildings on both sides seem to be at least four stories high. In the lower corner to our left is the signature of the artist.
Vatichino
Commentary
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