Skip to main content

Diego Velázquez, 'Philip IV of Spain in Brown and Silver', about 1631-2

About the work

Overview

Philip IV, King of Spain, was normally shown in fairly sombre clothing, so the unusual splendour of his costume here suggests that this work was made to celebrate something particular. In 1632, he wore a similar outfit for an important ceremony in which the Cortes of Castile pledged an oath of allegiance to his son and heir, Baltasar Carlos.

His sleeveless jacket and breeches, white silk sleeves and cloak are all richly embellished with silver thread, and his hat is decorated with delicate feathers. He wears the badge of the Order of the Golden Fleece (a prestigious chivalric order) and rests one hand on his sword. Philip appears as a young man, his impassive and assertive expression conveying his power.

We can see Velázquez’s signature on the petition Philip holds, identifying his position as court painter. The artist rarely signed his works, only those he considered important.

Key facts

Details

Full title
Philip IV of Spain in Brown and Silver
Artist dates
1599 - 1660
Date made
about 1631-2
Medium and support
oil on canvas
Dimensions
195 × 110 cm
Inscription summary
Signed; Inscribed
Acquisition credit
Bought, 1882
Inventory number
NG1129
Location
Not on display
Collection
Main Collection
Frame
21st-century Replica Frame incorporating 17th-century Ornaments

About this record

If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.

Images