How did El Greco use color in The Burial of the Count of Orgaz?

In The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, El Greco utilized color to distinguish between the earthly and heavenly realms, employing a palette that prefigures Expressionism.1

To create a stark contrast against the black background that engulfs the scene, the artist used "sour tones" of mustard yellow, cherry red, and inky blue. These colors are particularly prominent in the golden and red vestments of St. Augustine and St. Stephen, who are depicted bending over the count’s body. The count himself is clad in armor that reflects these vibrant yellows and reds, grounding the figures in the earthly portion of the painting.12

In contrast, the heavenly realm above is evoked through swirling, icy clouds that are semiabstract in shape, further emphasizing the artist's mastery of color to convey spiritual and physical dimensions.12