Prado Museum

The Art Gallery of Cornelis van der Geest

This exhibition is dedicated to Cornelis van der Geest and his influence on the Prado collection and the artistic context of his time. It presents significant works and insights into his legacy. The collection, featuring works from the Flemish painter Willem van Haecht, will be temporarily displayed in the Central Gallery of the Museo Nacional del Prado (Room 28) to celebrate the artistic richness of Flanders and its patronage by the Spanish royal family. After being showcased in the 'Rare and Indispensable' exhibition, which explored masterpieces from Flemish collections at the Museum aan de Stroom, the most eloquent example known of collectors' cabinets will be available for viewing at the Prado until the completion of the architectural rehabilitation works at its original museum.

Antonio Raphael Mengs. The greatest painter of the 18th century

EXHIBITION: MUSEO DEL PRADO AND FUNDACIÓN BBVA

This monographic exhibition dedicated to the painter Anton Raphael Mengs (1728-1779), exclusively sponsored by the Fundación BBVA, will be the most significant to date. It will showcase approximately 150 high-quality works, primarily from the Museo del Prado and Patrimonio Nacional, supplemented by international loans. The exhibition will include watercolors, pastels, drawings, oils, and the fresco 'Jupiter and Ganymede', as well as sculptures, medals, and manuscripts. It aims to provide a comprehensive view of Mengs, his models, and influences, highlighting his connection to great masters like Raphael, Correggio, and Pompeo Batoni.

Juan Muñoz

Juan Muñoz was an artist who engaged in a continuous dialogue with art history, drawing inspiration from various epochs, especially the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Growing up in Madrid, the Museo del Prado became one of his main sources of motivation. His artwork, influenced by artists from Parmigianino to Goya, emphasizes theatricality, illusionism, and architecture as vital means of expression. During his stay in Rome, he absorbed influences from Borromini, Bernini, and Piranesi. His deep connection with Velázquez and Goya was crucial in his portrayal of figures with dwarfism, and his fascination with fleeting moments evokes the spirit of Velázquez. Like Goya, Muñoz navigated the intricate boundary between humor and violence. His body of work invites reflection on viewer perception and the relationship between stillness and movement.

The Martyrdom of Saint Andrew

The Museo Nacional del Prado, home to the world’s largest and most important collection of works by Rubens, will, from now until 2026, host The Martyrdom of Saint Andrew, a masterpiece from the artist’s final years, thanks to the generosity of Fundación Carlos de Amberes. The painting is displayed in Room 16 B of the Villanueva Building along with its original frame, created during the same period Rubens was involved in the decorative programme of the Torre de la Parada.

The Female Perspective II

Thematic route

Following the enthusiastic response to 'The Female Perspective' thematic journey from December 2022 to April 2023, which set a precedent for other museums and collections, the Museo del Prado proudly presents a second edition. This exhibition celebrates the vital contributions of various women from European royal dynasties who played significant roles in expanding the ancient Spanish royal collection, now represented in today’s Museum. This edition focuses on new female art patrons spanning the period from Elizabeth of Bourbon to Maria Anna of Neuburg, between 1602 and 1700. A notable figure here is Queen Christina of Sweden, whose collecting efforts have led to one of the largest assemblages of classical sculptures in the Museo Nacional del Prado, along with important artworks such as Dürer’s Adam and Eve panels. To underscore the Museum's commitment to highlighting women's roles in art, a book accompanying the thematic route, alongside various multimedia features and an ambitious program of events—including guided tours, educational materials, and performances—will be offered. This initiative aligns with similar efforts by other institutions to present a more inclusive historical narrative, turning the spotlight on women as central figures in the art world.