Ignacio Merino Muñoz

Place: Piura

Born: 1817

Death: 1876

Biography:

Ignacio Merino Muñoz was a Peruvian painter notable for his historical and costumbrista works, and is considered the founder of the Peruvian school of painting. Born on January 30, 1817, in Piura, Peru, Merino's artistic talent was evident from an early age. His mother, Doña Micaela María Muñoz, encouraged his creative pursuits, and by the age of four, he was creating fine art on paper.

Early Life and Education

Merino's parents allowed him to travel to Paris at the age of 6, where he attended high school and earned his bachelor's degree in law. He also pursued his art career, studying under French painters Raymond Monvoisin and Paul Delaroche, who inspired his interest in history painting. As a result of Delaroche's influence, Merino focused on themes from European history, whereas his Peruvian-themed paintings were generally in the costumbrista category.

Career and Influences

Merino returned to Peru in 1838, where he established a school of lithography and a school of drawing and paint. He became Assistant Director, then Director of the Academy of Drawing and Painting, founded by José Fernando de Abascal, where he taught or otherwise influenced the careers of other prominent painters, such as Luis Montero Cáceres, Francisco Masías, and Francisco Laso. During the 1840s, he created a series of portraits devoted to Peruvian saints, including Rose of Lima and Martín de Porres. In 1850, Merino had an opportunity to study with Eugène Delacroix, and returned to Paris. He would remain there for the rest of his life. It is said that an exhibition of his costumbrista paintings served as the inspiration for Martin Paz, an adventure story by Jules Verne, which was set in Lima.

Notable Works and Legacy

Some of Merino's notable works include Colón ante los doctores en Salamanca, which was purchased by the government of President José Balta after winning a third-place medal at the Exposition des Beaux-Arts. He was also inspired by European literature and created works based on the writings of Shakespeare, Sir Walter Scott, and Miguel de Cervantes. Merino's legacy can be seen in his contributions to the Peruvian school of painting, and his influence on other prominent painters. His artworks are now part of the collection at the Ignacio Merino Municipal Art Gallery, which continues to operate as of 2023.

• Visit Painting by 'Ignacio Merino Muñoz' | Ignacio Merino Muñoz:[Lady at mass] to see more of his works.
• Learn more about Ignacio Merino Muñoz on Wikipedia.
• Explore the collection at the Butler Institute of American Art on The Butler Institute of American Art (United States).

was a pioneer of Peruvian painting, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts today. His contributions to the Peruvian school of painting and his influence on other prominent painters make him an important figure in the history of art.