A Soul Steeped in the Spirit of Spain – The Life and Art of Manuel Castellano Manuel Rodríguez de la Parra Castellano, more commonly known as Manuel Castellano (1826-1880), stands as a pivotal figure in 19th-century Spanish art. More than simply a painter, he was a ‘costumbrista,’ an artist deeply invested in capturing the essence of everyday life – particularly the vibrant and often dramatic world of bullfighting – within the rich tapestry of Spanish culture. His work transcends mere documentation; it’s imbued with a palpable sense of emotion, theatricality, and a keen understanding of the…