Museo del Prado hosts first exhibition for Ricardo de Madrazo

The Museo del Prado has launched its first major exhibition dedicated to Ricardo de Madrazo (1852–1917), the youngest member of a prominent 19th-century Spanish artistic dynasty. Long overshadowed by his father, Federico de Madrazo, and his brother, Raimundo, the exhibition aims to rescue the artist from historical obscurity.

Running until January 17, 2027, the showcase focuses on works on paper rather than large-scale canvases. It features 37 works, most of which are being displayed publicly for the first time, including sketchbooks dating from 1867 to 1917, watercolours, drawings, a self-portrait, and personal documents.

The collection highlights Madrazo’s creative range, encompassing Orientalism, genre scenes, and copies of Old Masters. His sketchbooks provide a visual record of his travels through Spain, Europe, and North Africa, including cities such as Rome, Naples, Tangier, and Fez. The exhibition is overseen by Pedro J. Martínez Plaza, the museum’s curator of 19th-century painting.