On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01687
- Author
- Rubens, Peter Paul (Flemish)
- Title
- Cardinal-Infante Fernando de Austria at the Battle of Nördlingen
- Chronology
- 1635-1640
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 335 cm x 258 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
The Cardinal-Infante is depicted in
full body armor, with a black hat,
a staff and a red sash. He is
portrayed as a general of the
Spanish Armies during the Battle of
Nördlingen when, in 1634, they took
on the Protestant army. Near him,
the allegory of fury and the eagle
and lightening bolts of Jupiter
allude to his dashing force. A
battle scene occupies the
background.
Rubens painted this work in
Brussels after the Infante arrived
to take on the position of Governor
of the Low Countries. The artist
opted for a highly intense image in
which the Cardinal's serenity
contrasts with his mount's
agitation. The horse's posture is
customary in many equestrian
portraits and is a visual metaphor
of the strength and capacities of
this ruler, whose virtues are
related in the cartouche at the
bottom.
This work was acquired by Felipe IV
and was in Madrid's Alcázar Palace
by 1666.
Location on the map
