by Elizabeth Borton De Trevino
First published 1996
Juan de Pareja stands in the shadows of Diego Velázquez's studio, mixing pigments and preparing canvases for the great Spanish master. Born into slavery, Juan serves the royal painter in 17th century Madrid, watching closely as Velázquez creates portraits of kings and nobles. Spanish law forbids slaves from practicing art, but Juan burns with artistic passion. He secretly teaches himself to paint, hiding his work and risking severe punishment. As Juan grows from boy to man in the painter's household, he struggles between loyalty to his master and his desperate need for creative expression. When Velázquez discovers Juan's hidden talent, both men face a choice that will change their lives forever. This story explores the bonds between master and servant, the power of art to transcend social barriers, and one man's fight for recognition and freedom.
Genres: art, historical-fiction, biographical-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: master-servant, secret-talent
Setting: Madrid, Spain
Period: 17th Century
217 pages · Library Binding · Demco Media
Content warnings: slavery