Biography

Lucas Giraldo (?–1550) was a sculptor and architect active in the first half of the 16th century. The earliest record we have of him dates to 1516 in Aragon, where he was associated with Damián Forment. In 1522, he was paid for work he undertook on the altarpiece of the tabernacle in Ávila Cathedral (Gómez-Moreno, 1983). From this point on, Giraldo began to be associated with other artists such as Juan de Arévalo and Juan Rodríguez (Parrado del Olmo, 1981). It is difficult to define his sculptural style due to his constant collaborations; however, the following characteristics could be cited: elongated proportions, Aragonese influences, expressive and vigorous figures with highly contrasting skin textures, and a Berruguetesque spirit (Parrado del Olmo, 1981; 1984). Lucas Giraldo produced numerous works, among which the following may be cited as examples: The sanctuary, choir screen, and altarpiece of Saint Catherine in the Cathedral of Ávila; the altarpiece of the Monastery of San Jerónimo de Guisando (Ávila); the Virgin and Child with Saints John in the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows; and the altarpiece of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Cows (Ávila).

Bibliography

• GÓMEZ-MORENO, Manuel (1983): Catálogo monumental de la provincia de Ávila. Texto, Ministerio de Cultura e Institución Gran Duque de Alba (ed. de Áurea de la Morena y de Teresa Pérez Higuera), Ávila.
• PARRADO DEL OLMO, Jesús María (2014): "La Edad Moderna en la Catedral de Ávila: una nueva época", La catedral de Ávila. Nueve siglos de historia y arte, Promecal. Diario de Ávila, Ávila.
• PARRADO DEL OLMO, Jesús María (1984): "Sobre escultura abulense del siglo XVI", vol. 50, BSAA.
• TORMO, Elías (1917): "Cartillas excursionistas. Ávila", nº 25, Boletín de la Sociedad Española de Excursiones.