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The Surrender of Breda
The Surrender of Breda', also known as 'Las lanzas' (The Lances), is a work by Spanish painter Diego Velázquez created between 1634-1635. It depicts a historical scene—the capitulation of the city of Breda during the Eighty Years' War. The painting shows a number of military figures in the surroundings and the act of surrender by the city, an important military and national event.
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:
1634-1635
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Execution technique:
oil on canvas
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Location:
Museo del Prado, Madrid, Spain
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Theme:
battle, history, war
Internal Narrative and Creative Framework
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Inner Narrative
The painting symbolizes honorable and humane treatment of the defeated and celebrates Spain's victory with respect for the opponent. It expresses patriotism and pays homage to General Ambrogio Spinola.
The key to interpreting the work
The painting should be interpreted as an illustration of a historical event emphasizing the value of honor, military ethics, and national identity of Spain. Special attention is given to realistic details and the depiction of participants' emotions in the scene.See other works by this artist
The Virgin appearing to St Ildephonsus and giving him a robe
- Artist: Diego Velázquez
- Year: 1620
