Murillo: The Self Portraits, The National Gallery, London: 28 February 2018 – 21 May 2018

Murillo was one of the most renowned painters, rising to fame in the 1600s during the Spanish Golden Age. Murillo was famous for his Baroque religious works, but he also painted many self-portraits of women and children. His works of street children, flower girls and beggars create a detailed idea of everyday life in the Spanish streets. By the 19th century, Murillo’s work was more well-known than any other Spanish artist.

On the 400th Anniversary of his birth, 1617, the exhibition displays the only two known self-portraits of Murillo together. The first self-portrait was painted c.1650-55 after his return to Seville, and the second was painted c.1668-70 with an inscription stating it was painted at the request of his children.

This exhibition includes another 10 works, with other paintings by Murillo and reproductions of the original two self-portraits, commissioned in later years due to the fame of the paintings in Europe. This exhibition is a unique opportunity to admire the skill of this established master in 17th century Spanish art and see Murillo in a new light.

This exhibition is organised by the National Gallery, London and the Frick Collection, New York. 

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square

London WC2N 5DN

Opening Times

Daily: 10.00 - 18.00

Friday: 10.00 - 21.00