Jacopo Amigoni (1682-1752), Jacopo Amigoni (1682-1752) Portrait of Maria Barbara of Braganza, Queen of Spain, 1747-1752

Oil on Canvas 81 x 63 cm

Renowned Venetian painter Jacopo Amigoni answered the summons of Ferdinand VI in 1747, beckoning him to assume the esteemed role of court painter in Madrid. During his tenure, he undertook the prestigious task of capturing the likeness of the royal family in a series of esteemed portraits.

Maria Barbara of Braganza (1711-1758) was Infanta of Portugal and became Queen of Spain through her marriage to Ferdinand VI. In this private portrait, the queen is depicted with extraordinary empathy. Positioned in a three-quarter view facing left, her countenance exudes dignity and regal poise as she gazes directly at the viewer. Soft illumination from the upper left delicately shapes her features, enhancing the allure of her attire and drapery.

Adorned in a light blue silk gown with a yellow lining and a plunging neckline, she exudes understated elegance. A white silk cloak, secured by a brooch at her shoulder and cascading over her knees, is cradled by her left arm. In her right hand, she delicately holds a flower adorned with a sizable pearl. A verdant curtain drapes diagonally across the upper left quadrant of the composition, adding depth to the scene against a neutral grey backdrop. Notably, the absence of opulent regalia suggests that this portrait serves a personal rather than official purpose. Oil on canvas, 81 x 63 cm