Who was Vincenzo Anastagi?

Anastagi was a Knight of Malta famous for defending the island during the 1565 Ottoman siege. He later became Sergeant Major of Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome.

Where is El Greco's portrait of Anastagi?

The painting hangs at the Frick Collection in New York. It's one of only two full-length portraits by El Greco.

When did El Greco paint this portrait?

El Greco painted this around 1575 during his Roman period, before moving to Spain where he spent the rest of his career.

Where Is Vincenzo Anastagi? See It at Frick Collection

El Greco completed this full-length portrait of Vincenzo Anastagi around 1575, depicting the Knight of Malta in his ceremonial armor. Light blazes off the breastplate in a single dramatic stroke while the subject's sunburnt face and muscular calves speak to his military experience. His confident stance fills the tall canvas.

Anastagi had distinguished himself during the 1565 Siege of Malta against the Ottoman Empire. El Greco painted him during his Roman period, seeking patronage after expulsion from the Farnese household. This is one of only two full-length portraits by the master. It hangs at the Frick Collection in New York.