On-line gallery
- Reference number
- E00269
- Author
- Leoni, Leone (Italian); Leoni, Pompeo (Italian)
- Title
- The Empress Isabel
- Chronology
- 1550-1555
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 152 cm x 136 cm x 16 cm - 841 kg
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
The bust of Isabel of Portugal
(1503-1539) is represented in
profile in a profusely sculpted
frame, just like the relief carving
of Emperor Carlos V (E291) that is
paired with this one.
Beginning with the image of the
Empress appearing on medals he,
himself, had crafted at an earlier
date, Leoni represents her with the
same clothing and jewels. These are
repeated in various of his works
and constitute her most customary
image.
The detailed and precise style of
the bust is similar to that of a
goldsmith, contrasting with the
powerful reliefs of the
architectural frame, which follows
typically Renaissance motives.
Outstanding are the caryatid and
Atlantes that flank the bust. On
the relief of Carlos V, those
figures are turned to look at him,
but here, they look straight ahead.
Location on the map
