On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P00735
- Author
- Goya y Lucientes, Francisco de (Spanish)
- Title
- King Fernando VII with the Robes of State
- Chronology
- 1815
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 208 cm x 142,5 cm x 2 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- MUSEO DE LA TRINIDAD
- Procedence
- Trinity Museum
Born in 1784 in El Escorial,
Fernando VII was Carlos IV eldest
son by Maria Luisa. In 1815, after
abolishing the Constitution, he
reined as an absolute monarch. He
appears wearing the symbols of his
royal condition, with a purple,
ermine-lined robe, and a scepter
with the coat of arms of Castile
and Leon in his right hand. The
sash of the Order of Carlos III
crosses his chest, and he also
bears the Golden Fleece.
Some doubts and pentimenti revealed
by x-rays indicate changes to the
figure, which could suggest that
Goya made this portrait in presence
of the King, himself, as the facial
expression and distrustful gaze
—despite the vacuous smile on his
lips— are rendered with admirable
mastery worthy of a portrait made
before a live model.
Location on the map
