The Agony in the Garden

Fernando Gallego, the leading painter of Salamanca and one of the most distinctive Spanish artists of the fifteenth century, painted this Agony in the Garden around 1488. Gallego's intense, angular style was influenced by Netherlandish painting, particularly Dirk Bouts and Schongauer, but developed a uniquely Spanish character. His altarpieces for Castilian and Extremaduran churches are among the most powerful works of the Hispano-Flemish school.

Oil on panel with Gallego's characteristic sharp, angular figure drawing and intense coloring. The nocturnal garden setting shows his distinctive approach to landscape, combining Netherlandish detail with dramatic Spanish lighting.