Equestrian portrait of Ferdinand VII
1808 Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
About this artwork
This life-sized equestrian portrait depicts King Ferdinand VII of Spain dressed in military uniform, holding a baton of command. It serves as an official royal commission reflecting the political transition of the Spanish monarchy during the Peninsular War.
Did you know?
This portrait was painted shortly after Ferdinand VII ascended to the throne following the forced abdication of his father, Charles IV. Goya, who was the court painter, had a complicated relationship with the monarchy and often included subtle, nuanced psychological depth in his royal sitters that bordered on unflattering realism.
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Equestrian portrait of Ferdinand VII
Francisco Goya, 1808
