Saint Peter Penitent

not after 1613 (possibly from 1606)

Sets out for Italy to study the old masters

Probably no later than 1613, perhaps as early as 1606, Ribera leaves for Italy to study the paintings of the old masters: first north to Cremona, Milan and Parma, then to Rome, where he gets to know the work of Guido Reni and Ludovico Carracci. Other accounts allow that he may have been there as early as 1605–09; he never returns to Spain.

late 1616

The permanent move to Naples

In late 1616 Ribera moves to Naples, then ruled by Spain, for good — according to Mancini, to escape his creditors, since he lived beyond his means despite a high income. Many of his paintings will be taken back to Spain by returning Spaniards, but he himself never goes back.

late 1620s

Recognised as Naples's leading painter

Ribera's career picks up in the late 1620s, and he is accepted as the leading painter in Naples thereafter; he runs a workshop with many pupils, among them Francesco Fracanzano, Luca Giordano, Bartolomeo Passante and Hendrick de Somer.

1630

Velázquez visits Ribera in Naples

In 1630 Diego Velázquez visits Ribera in Naples — evidence of how well known the master was in his homeland.

1647–1648

The uprising against Spain: refuge in the palace

During the uprising against Spanish rule in 1647–48 Ribera and his family take refuge in the Viceroy's palace.

3 września 1652

Died