José Campeche

José Campeche (December 23, 1751-1809), was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the first known Puerto Rican artist and considered by many as one of the best rococo artists in the Americas.

Early years

Campeche was born to Tomás de Rivafrecha y Campeche (1701-1780), a freed slave born in Puerto Rico, and María Jordán y Marqués from the Canary Islands. Because of this mixed descent, he was identified as a mulatto, a common term during his time. Campeche's father was a restorer and painter of religious statues and had an early influence on the younger Campeche's interest in the arts. He was trained by Luis Paret, a Spanish court painter banished from Spain.

Paintings by Campeche

Campeche distinguished himself with his paintings related to religious themes and of governors and other important personalities. His most famous paintings are:
* "Virgen de la Soledad de la Victoria"
* "The Virgin of Bethlehem"
* "The Virgin of the Rosary"
* "Saint John the Baptist"
* "The Sacred Family"
* "The Bishop of San Francisco de la Cuerda"
* "The Vision of Saint Anthony"
* "The Shipwreck of Power" in honor of Ramon Power y Giraltand his best known portraits are of:
* "Juan Alejo de Arizmendi"
* "Ramón de Castro"
* "Miguel A. de Ustariz"

Puerto Rican society of the times appreciated Campeche's personal and artistic merits. He is considered among the most gifted rococo artists in the Americas. Campeche's works of art can be found today in museums, churches and private collections in Puerto Rico and Venezuela. Campeche died in the city of San Juan on November 7, 1809.

Namesakes

There is a José Campeche room located in the former Dominican Convent in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico where some of his works can be seen and appreciated by the general public. This building is currently being renovated and will be reinaugurated as the National Gallery of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has schools and avenues named after Campeche to honor his memory. The José Campeche High School is located in San Lorenzo. Manuel Gregorio Tavarez composed a funeral march "Redención" in Campeche's honor. Puerto Rico's greatest graphic artist Lorenzo Homar also created a work of art commemorating Campeche.

ee also

*List of famous Puerto Ricans
*Black history in Puerto Rico

External links

* [http://www.zonai.com/promociones/biografias/0301/ana_oneill.asp El Nuevo Dia]