The Purification of the Temple

The Purification of the Temple by El Greco
Artist
El Greco
Date
1600 ; Italy
Style
Mannerism
Genre
Religious painting
Location
National Gallery
El Greco's The Purification of the Temple (1595–1600), housed in the Frick Collection in New York City, is a striking religious painting depicting Christ driving the money changers from the temple. Created during his late years in Toledo, Spain, this Mannerism (late renaissance) masterpiece reflects El Greco’s mastery of oil painting techniques and his spiritual intensity. Completed about four years before his death in 1614, it highlights his long-standing focus on this biblical event, which he revisited in multiple versions. The work exemplifies his unique style, blending dramatic composition and elongated figures characteristic of his prolific career.

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