The essays, by a number of distinguished scholars, inevitably overlap on some points. They also contain differing interpretation of certain subjects. Their variety, however, seems wholly appropriate, given the richness of the terrain they are covering. Velazquez and Seville individually merit exhibitions, let alone together! - from the Introduction.The subtlety and profundity of Velazquez's art are already evident in these early Sevillian works, which are here set in context by comparison with other paintings, sculptures and drawings by his contemporaries.