On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P02200
- Author
- Mengs, Anton Rafael (German)
- Title
- Carlos III
- Chronology
- Ca. 1761
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 154 cm x 110 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCIONREAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
Born to Felipe V (1683-1746) and
Isabel de Farnesio (1692-1766),
Carlos III occupied the throne of
Naples under the name Carlos VII
between 1738 and 1759, when he
became king of Spain. His reign was
marked by great economic
prosperity, as well as the
development of the arts and ideas
associated with the
Enlightenment.
He wears sumptuous military dress
clothing, with the necklaces of the
Golden Fleece, Saint Esprit and San
Genaro on his chest. The portrait
is completed with various elements
alluding to his majesty as a
monarch: the rulers staff in his
right hand, and his royal
ermine-lined robes, with castles,
lions and fleurs de lis as heraldic
symbols, on the table.
With this painting, Mengs
configured the official image of
the King of Spain, and numerous
copies were mande. It is paired
with the portrait of Mary Amalia of
Saxony (P2201), and both were
painted shortly after the artist
arrived in Spain.
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