Joli, Antonio – Visita de la reina María Amalia de Sajonia al Arco de Trajano en Benevento Part 6 Prado Museum

The canvas presents a scene steeped in historical resonance and courtly ceremony. Here we observe a monumental stone archway dominating the compositions center, its weathered surface suggesting considerable age and exposure to the elements. The structure is flanked by remnants of what appear to be ancient walls or fortifications, hinting at a rich, layered past. A landscape stretches out beyond the immediate foreground, receding into a hazy distance where rolling hills meet a pale sky punctuated with soft clouds.
A group of figures occupies the lower right quadrant of the painting. They are formally attired in 18th-century garments – men in coats and breeches, women in elaborate dresses – and appear to be engaged in a display of deference or welcome. A central figure, distinguished by a vibrant red coat, seems to be directing attention towards the archway. To the left, another group on horseback approaches along a stone bridge that spans a shallow body of water. The riders are similarly dressed and contribute to the sense of occasion and procession.
The artist’s use of light is noteworthy. A diffused illumination bathes the scene, softening edges and creating an atmospheric perspective that emphasizes the depth of the landscape. The archway itself is rendered with meticulous detail, highlighting its architectural features and conveying a sense of grandeur. The color palette leans towards muted earth tones – ochres, browns, grays – with touches of blue in the sky and hints of green in the distant foliage.
Subtleties within the scene suggest more than just a straightforward depiction of an event. The juxtaposition of the ancient Roman archway with the contemporary figures implies a deliberate connection between past glory and present power. The presence of the equestrian group, traditionally associated with authority and leadership, reinforces this notion. The careful arrangement of the figures – the bowing crowd, the approaching procession – suggests a carefully orchestrated display designed to legitimize or celebrate the status of those in power.
The ruins surrounding the archway serve as a visual reminder of the transience of empires and the enduring nature of time. They provide a backdrop against which the present moment is framed, subtly suggesting that contemporary authority draws its legitimacy from a venerable historical lineage. The overall effect is one of controlled formality, conveying an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence for both history and those who hold positions of power within it.