Queen María Cristina (1806-1878) was the fourth wife of Fernando VII (1784-1833) and the mother of Isabel II (1830-1904). Here she wears the sash of the Order of María Luisa, the scallop of the Order of the Eagle and the Star of Isabel Teresa of Austria.

This painting was commissioned as a wedding portrait for her husband and uncle. It was especially appreciated by the Monarch, who hung it in his office.

In this, one of his most sumptuous works, López was especially meticulous in his rendering of both the Queen's features and the qualities of her clothing and jewels. His technique here is characteristically affected and polished. The lighting, concentrated on María Cristina's face and arms, helps to give the work a certain melancholy feeling.