Pacheco, Francisco

(1564-1644)

   Spanish painter, best known for his theoretical treatise, the Arte de la Pintura, published in 1649, key work for understanding the history of Spanish painting. It includes information on the proper depiction of religious subjects, discussion on technique, and, more importantly, biographical information on the Spanish painters of the era. Pacheco's studio in Seville became a center of culture where artists and intellectuals met to discuss learned topics. In this environment, Diego Velazquez, who trained with Pacheco and eventually married his teacher's daughter, spent his formative years.