Hall of the Ambassadors, Alhambra, Granada

Joaquín Sorolla painted this view of the Alhambra in 1909. Born in Valencia, he became famous for painting outdoors and studying the effects of sunlight. Sorolla returned many times to Spain's historic gardens and buildings for inspiration. In the same year, a large exhibition introduced his work to thousands of people in the United States. Its success made him one of the best-known Spanish artists of his time. This painting at the Getty Museum was made shortly before he began Vision of Spain, a huge series celebrating the country's regions and traditions.