(bapt. Solsona, Catalonia, 2 June 1565; d Valencia, 13 Jan. 1628). Spanish painter, an important figure in the transition from Mannerism to a more naturalistic style. He spent most of his early career in Madrid, but by 1599 he had settled in Valencia. Up to about 1620 his work was eclectic, but he then developed a more personal and powerful style, with dramatic lighting that echoes Caravaggio (Christ Embracing St Bernard, 1625–7, Prado, Madrid). Zurbarán was among the artists who were influenced by him. His son Juan (1596/7–1628) was an able painter in his father's style, but died young.