The sacred made real at the National Gallery deals with 17th century Spanish religious art of a hyper real quality. The concept sounds odd however if you have an interest in Spanish, or religious art, it is worth a visit.

The exhibition is unique because of the stunning sculptures of religious figures painted so well painted that they appear real.  The intention is to show the link between artists like Zubaran or Velazques who painted the sculptures and how this influenced their paintings. So we get to see some great Spanish painting and some amazing sculptures – not for the squeamish.

Sculpture of Jesus recumbant

Sculpture of a badly beaten back

Much credit is due to the British Museum for their excellent exhibition about Moctezuma.

The curators have closely focussed on Moctezuma himself, his reign, related documents and images. At the same time they have avoided spending too much time on the Spanish conquistidors – the emphasis is firmly on the Mexica culture.

As a result one can see a number of well preserved high quality objects which are very well presented. For example the Mexica calendar is clearly explained, as are the images that made up Moctezuma’s ‘name’.

For more on the Spanish conquest read the astonishing Bernal Diaz.