Spanish School; c. 1899.

Spanish School; c. 1899.
“Last Rites”
Oil on canvas
The painting’s surface has been restored.
Dated and located in Rome.
Measurements: 20 x 29 cm; 24 x 33 cm.
A religious scene likely depicting the death of Saint Francis Borgia, a very popular subject in 19th-century Spanish religious painting. The composition revolves around a moment of intense solemnity, in which the narrative focuses on the preparation for the passage into death, underscoring the devotional nature of the subject. The scene, conceived with a strong sense of drama, emphasizes the expressiveness of the figures and the atmosphere of contemplation—elements characteristic of religious history painting.
From a stylistic perspective, the work shows a clear influence of late-19th-century pictorialism, particularly the artistic language developed by Mariano Benlliure, whose influence is evident in the solidity of the drawing, the careful handling of the composition, and the attention to detail. This influence results in a balanced execution that blends realism and dramatization, where light and color help reinforce the emotional impact of the depicted episode.