Lucas de Valdés (1661 - 1724)

Lucas de Valdés

Lucas de Valdés Carasquilla, a Spanish Baroque painter and engraver from Seville, born in 1661, was the third child of Juan de Valdés Leal. Influenced by his father's role in the painting guild, he began artistic endeavors early, creating his first known work at eleven. Alongside his siblings, he learned painting and engraving techniques in his father's workshop. Notably, he collaborated on assignments like adorning the Hospital de los Venerables' church. After formal education at San Hermenegildo College, he married the daughter of sculptor Francisco Dionisio de Ribas.

Lucas's prominence grew as his father's health declined. He completed various works, including murals, engravings, portraits, and more, reflecting influences from Murillo and others. His significant projects encompassed the murals in churches like the Hospital de los Venerables and the convent of San Pablo el Real. Around 1715, he painted the dome of the church at San Luis de los Franceses, then shifted to teaching mathematics at the Academy of Guardiamarinas in Cádiz from 1719, marking a decline in artistic output. He passed away in Cádiz on February 23, 1725.