Diego Velazquez – Philip IV of Spain in Brown and Silver Part 2 National Gallery UK
Part 2 National Gallery UK – Diego Velazquez - Philip IV of Spain in Brown and Silver
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This is one of many portraits of King Philip IV painted by Diego Velázquez. This painting was created by the artist after his return from Italy, where he studied the paintings of famous painters. At the time of the painting, Velázquez had already worked as a court painter for several years. Philip IV was an admirer of his talent. That is why he uttered the phrase: "No one but you will paint me anymore." The painting shows the young king in a full-length suit embroidered in silver.
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Description of Diego Velázquez’s painting Philip IV
This is one of many portraits of King Philip IV painted by Diego Velázquez. This painting was created by the artist after his return from Italy, where he studied the paintings of famous painters.
At the time of the painting, Velázquez had already worked as a court painter for several years. Philip IV was an admirer of his talent. That is why he uttered the phrase: "No one but you will paint me anymore."
The painting shows the young king in a full-length suit embroidered in silver. Philip IV is stately and calm, as befits a king. His lips are pursed and his eyes are a little sad. But there is no shadow on his face and not a single wrinkle.
In the background, you can see the king’s hat lying on the table. To the left is a portiere. The background of the painting is meant to shade the figure of the king. Nothing distracts the eye from Philip IV.
In his hand the king holds a folded sheet of paper. On it Velazquez put his signature. Not all of his portraits were signed by the artist. The presence of the autograph indicates the importance of this painting for Velazquez himself.
Even without knowing who is depicted in the picture, you can guess that it is a wealthy and powerful man. This is indicated by the pose. The man stands with his left hand on the hilt of the sword. Such a pose speaks of power and authority. The rich costume also indicates nobility. On the neck hangs a long gold chain with the insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Only members of noble families were initiated into this order.
This portrait once again characterizes Velázquez as a master in tracing the texture of fabrics. If you view the canvas up close, you’ll see a huge array of brushstrokes and dots before your eyes. But if you step back, they all line up in a complex pattern. With his technique, the artist was able to convey the volume of the embroidery and the glitter of silver. You can also see that the cape is sewn from a light fabric, as the backdrop shines through.
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