El Greco began his career in Greece as a Christian icon painter before moving to Italy to master Western painting techniques and then finally settling down in Spain.

As a painter, he would often accentuate the effects of light and elongate his subjects. He was also known for his use of religious imagery, which was often dismissed as the manifestation of his Catholic faith. Today, his style is appreciated as a product of an international background — a unique mix of Greek Hellenic, Italian Renaissance and Spanish Catholic influences.

More than 50 oil paintings from Museo del Prado in Madrid and other prestigious museums worldwide have been brought together for this exhibition; till Dec. 24.

The National Museum of Art, Osaka; (06) 6447-4680; 4-2-55 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka; Watanabebashi Station, Keihan Nakanoshima Line.10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Fri. till 7 p.m.). ¥1,500. Closed Mon. (except Dec. 24). www.nmao.go.jp.