Pedro Mena

Background

He was born at Granada, in Andalusia. He was a pupil of his father Alonso de Mena as well as of Alonzo Cano.

Career

In 1658 he signed a contract for sculptural, work on the choir stalls of the cathedral of Málaga, this work extending over four years. Between 1673 and 1679 Mena worked at Córdoba. Mena died in Málaga, city where he spent most of his life, and where he had a sculpture studio for thirty years until his death in 1688.

He and José Mora may be regarded as artistic descendants of Juan Martínez Montañés and Cano, but in technical skill and the expression of religious motive his statues are unsurpassed in the sculpture of Spain.

His feeling for the nude was remarkable. Like his immediate predecessors he excelled in the portrayal of contemplative figures and scenes.

Mena"s drawing of Santiago leaping upon his charger is good, and the carving admirable, but the necessary movement for so spirited an action is lacking.

Achievements

• His first conspicuous success was achieved in work for the convent of Saint Anthony Granada, including figures of Street Joseph, Street Antony of Padua, Street Diego, Street Pedro Mentara, Street Franciscus and Santa Clara.