The illustrious soldier, Antonio Ricardos y Carrillo, is depicted by Goya in the battle dress of a Captain General, with the sash of the Order of Carlos III and the plaque of that same order on his dress coat. The scallop of the Order of Santiago on his lapel and the triple braid on his cuffs complete the symbols of this general's high rank.

The portrait was made shortly after his death, as he was awarded the third braid after the last battle in which he participated. Following his death, his widow gave the painting to Manuel Godoy, who passed it on to the Countess of Chinchón.

Goya masterfully captures the haughty military attitude of this proud general, portraying him with a sincere realism that even marks the golden color of his face, as opposed to the whiteness of his forehead, which was constantly protected by his hat, recalling this soldier's continuous presence on the battlefield.