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Portrait of the Infanta Margarita
The Portrait of the Infanta Margarita is a famous work by Diego Velázquez depicting a young aristocrat, the daughter of King Philip IV of Spain, known from the painting Las Meninas. The painting was created late in the artist's life and shows the Infanta at about eight years old, dressed in a characteristic Baroque-era blue dress with decorative lace and a fur muff. The portrait conveys the dignity and grace of the young princess while simultaneously showcasing the grandeur of her refined attire, particularly the extensive crinoline.
Portrait of the Creator
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Artist
Diego Velázquez
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Date of birth and death
Baptised on 6 June 1599 – Died 6 August 1660
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Natinality
Spanish
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Style
Baroque
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Significant works
The Surrender of Breda, Rokeby Venus, Portrait of Innocent X, Las Meninas, Las Hilanderas
Information about the work
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Year:
1660
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Execution technique:
oil on canvas
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Location:
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, Austria
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Theme:
child portrait, royal court, Baroque
Internal Narrative and Creative Framework
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Inner Narrative
The painting illustrates both the social rank of the Infanta and Velázquez's artistic virtuosity, employing a looser brush technique visible especially from a distance. The portrait is full of symbolism and references to the young girl's political and social position.
The key to interpreting the work
Pay attention to Velázquez's painting mastery, especially the play of light and fabric texture, as well as the model's subtle facial expression. It is valuable to consider the historical background and the painting's place within the series of portraits of the Infanta.See other works by this artist
The Virgin appearing to St Ildephonsus and giving him a robe
- Artist: Diego Velázquez
- Year: 1620
