Murillo, coming from poverty and rising to eminence, was the youngest of four great painters in the 17th Century. His thoughtful paintings and exquisite use of color shed light on the everyday life of his times; and perhaps his poor upbringing also lent him the ability to render a more accurate portrait of the lives of those in the lower class.
In Peasant Boy Leaning on a Sill, the boy is wearing a radiant and serene smile on his face, seemingly content with who he is and needing nothing more in life. The light from outside shines on the boy indicating it is possible for any young person to be joyous if the sun is shining and he is alive. Murillo depicts this boy as someone who knows the simple joys of life are those that make us most happy. The well chosen colors, subtly blended with an expert stroke, make the painting come alive. One can see Murillo’s eye for color for which he was known, and that he was truly a master at his art.
