Diego Velázquez is considered the leading artist of the Spanish Golden Age, his work spanning over the first half of the 17th century. One of the great baroque Spanish painters who continues to influence artists throughout the impressionist period until today, Velázquez is primarily known for his portraits of Spanish royalty and other notable figures culminating in his masterpiece Las Meninas (1656). An introductory essay further explores the painter's life and work within his historical context, while selected artworks are presented and explained in detail. The Masters of Art series presents major artists who have left their mark on the history of art. Along with lively biographies, the books contain brilliant full-page illustrations of numerous key works, each with a commentary and a guide to further reading.