Madrid
Open now

Sobre el papel: Uncover El Greco's Masterpieces and Archival Connections at Museo del Greco

Experience a unique dialogue between historical documents and the iconic artistry of Doménico Theotokopoulos at this compelling exhibition.

The 'Sobre el papel' exhibition at Museo del Greco invites visitors to explore the profound links between historical archival documents and the celebrated masterpieces of Doménico Theotokopoulos, also known as El Greco. This presentation offers an exceptional perspective on how paper records influenced the painter's artistic output, highlighting key contributions from early researchers like Manuel Bartolomé Cossío. Discover the detailed documentation spanning El Greco's personal life, significant artistic creations, and enduring legacy, all housed in this remarkable collection.

About Sobre el papel at Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Sobre el papel at Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This temporary exhibition at the Museo del Greco connects historical archival documents related to Doménico Theotokopoulos with his masterpieces. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to see how archival documentation influenced the painter's works, showcasing a dialogue between paper records and final artworks.

Curatorial context

Timed to coincide with International Archives Day, the Museo del Greco presents 'Sobre el papel' (On Paper), an exhibition that draws a compelling link between historical documents pertaining to Doménico Theotokopoulos and the artworks housed within the museum. This exhibition provides a remarkable chance for visitors to explore how archival documentation directly influenced the painter's creations, creating a dialogue between the idea on paper and the final, recognizable pieces. The exhibition is structured into two primary sections. The first section highlights the contributions of early researchers of El Greco's life and work, notably Manuel Bartolomé Cossío and Francisco de Borja San Román. These figures were instrumental during a period of artistic revival, solidifying El Greco's status as a pivotal figure and a progenitor of the Spanish school of painting. The second section focuses on documentation related to the painter, sourced from the Archivo Histórico Provincial de Toledo and the Archivo Histórico Nacional. This material is organized thematically to cover his personal life, artistic output, and enduring legacy. Aspects of his personal life include documents concerning his residential leases and his role as an interpreter in a 1582 Inquisition process. Examples of his work and legacy are represented by a 1629 document referencing 'Vista y plano de Toledo' and portraits of the Covarrubias brothers, both significant pieces in the museum's collection. Additionally, a document signed by Matías Moreno in 1892, related to 'El entierro del señor de Orgaz,' addresses the painting's historical journey. The exhibition also touches upon Luis Tristán, completing a brief exploration of the Cretan artist's life. For the first time at the Museo del Greco, visitors can experience El Greco's impact not only artistically but also through documentary evidence.

Admission and ticket notes

Information on tickets and admission is not detailed on this page. Visitors are directed to the Museo del Greco for further details regarding entry and any associated costs.

Sobre el papel key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Sobre el papel at Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas in Madrid

Venue
Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Jun 9, 2026 – Sep 13, 2026
Artist line / attribution
Features works by Doménico Theotokopoulos (El Greco) and historical documents related to his life and research by figures such as Manuel Bartolomé Cossío and Francisco de Borja San Román, alongside works by Luis Tristán.
More from Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas in Madrid to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
Watercolor illustration of a museum gallery featuring mannequins in 19th-century romantic-era dresses, with display cases and historical artifacts, evoking the fashion of Spain from 1833-1868.
Permanent exhibition

Explore "Romanticismo (1833-1868)": Spanish Fashion History from the Romantic Era

Witness social and stylistic shifts in clothing from 1833 to 1868.

This permanent exhibition delves into fashion trends during the Romantic period in Spain. Discover how the rising bourgeoisie influenced both male and female attire, contrasting somber men's wear with opulent women's styles.

Romanticismo Exhibition
A watercolor illustration of a Parisian haute couture workshop with mannequins displaying dramatic purple gowns, a designer draping fabric, and the Eiffel Tower visible through the window.
Permanent exhibition

Cristóbal Balenciaga: Exploring the Fashion Legacy at Decorative Arts Museum

A permanent exhibition on the master Spanish couturier's art.

Discover the unparalleled artistry of Cristóbal Balenciaga and his transformative impact on haute couture. This display showcases his innovative designs, mastery of fabrics, and pursuit of elegance. Learn about the iconic Spanish fashion house.

Balenciaga Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of Belle Époque fashion exhibit featuring four mannequins in elegant 1900s dresses, hats, and accessories, displayed in a museum gallery with period wallpaper and roped barriers.
Permanent exhibition

Discover Belle Époque Fashion: Women's Clothing Evolution (1898-1914)

Explore costume design and social influences from the early 20th century.

Journey through the Belle Époque (1898-1914) to see how women's fashion changed. This exhibit highlights the shift from restrictive corsetry to liberated, natural silhouettes, reflecting societal developments in historical attire.

Belle Époque Fashion
Watercolor illustration of a museum exhibition showcasing 19th-century Spanish women's dresses, highlighting the transition from miriñaque crinolines to polisón bustles, with mannequins in purple and white gowns under gallery lighting.
Permanent exhibition

Del miriñaque al polisón (1868-1898): Exploring Late 19th-Century Fashion Evolution

A permanent exhibition tracing the evolution of women's dress.

Examine the influences of society and designers on fashion from 1868 to 1898. See how the miriñaque silhouette transitioned to the polisón bustle. A key exploration of historical costume.

Fashion History Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a museum display case featuring ancient garments and jewelry, with visitors observing the exhibit on the 'Tiempos lejanos' (Distant Times) theme.
Permanent exhibition

Tiempos lejanos: The History of Clothing at Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas

Delving into human adaptation and social differentiation through ancient attire.

This exhibition at Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas reveals clothing's fundamental role for the human species. Understand how garments facilitated adaptation and social signaling, with rare fragments and art. A unique look at antiquity through dress.

Tiempos lejanos Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of 18th-19th century Spanish fashion in a museum display, featuring neoclassical dresses and traditional 'majismo' attire, reflecting the cultural shift from 1789-1833.
Permanent exhibition

Afrancesados y burgueses (1789-1833) Fashion Exhibition at Decorative Arts Museum

Explore fashion changes shaped by revolution, Neoclassicism, and Spanish majismo.

This permanent exhibition details the impact of social and economic shifts on fashion from 1789 to 1833. See how the French Revolution, Neoclassicism, and the unique Spanish 'majismo' style influenced period attire and cultural expression. Discover historical clothing examples.

Exhibition Details
Madrid

Find Exhibitions in Madrid: Explore Current Showcases and Cultural Events

Discover Madrid’s diverse art, history, and science cultural displays.

Navigate through Madrid’s vibrant exhibition scene to uncover artistic, historical, and scientific showcases. Pinpoint specific cultural experiences and plan your visits with ease. Explore an array of compelling displays across the city.