Primarily known as one of Spain’s most original still-life painters, Sánchez Cotán’s numerous religious works are characterised by the idealisation of the figures, concise line, pale colours and highly finished, precise brushstroke. The subject depicted here enjoyed a long tradition in Toledan painting. It shows the moment when Saint Ildefonso (607-667 AD), a firm defender of Mary’s virginity, receives a chasuble from her.

Although Juan Sánchez Cotán pursued different genres of painting, portraits, and religious compositions, his main contribution to Spanish painting was the establishment of the still life, considered the most characteristically Spanish genre. However, such a statement is extremely reductive and does not take into account the variety of possibilities realised in this genre in Spain. Sobriety, intimacy, magical purity, mysterious intensity, elegance in simplicity or symbolic humility

Brígida del Río was a well-known character in the late 16th century, as indicated by the descriptions of her in various literary and visual accounts; works that reflect a para-scientific interest of her nature. Bearded women were associated in the collective imagination with lust and devilry. The painting’s meticulous, detailed technique is characteristic of Sánchez Cotán.