Joaquín Domínguez Bécquer's Duchess of Montpensier portrait debuts at Colnaghi Madrid
In 1853, Joaquín Domínguez Bécquer created a significant oil painting titled Portrait of the Duchess of Montpensier, which is now showcased at Colnaghi Madrid. This sizable artwork, signed and dated by Bécquer, features Infanta María Luisa Fernanda de Borbón, Duchess of Montpensier, portrayed at the age of 21 on the terraces of Seville's Palacio de San Telmo. The duchess played a pivotal role during the Orléans family's exile following the July Monarchy's collapse in 1848, as Seville transformed into a refuge for exiled royals, diplomats, writers, aristocrats, and artists. The painting reflects the Orléans family's aspirations for political influence, cultural heritage, and noble traditions in their temporary residence.
Key facts
- Joaquín Domínguez Bécquer painted the portrait in 1853
- The painting is signed and dated by the artist
- It depicts Infanta María Luisa Fernanda de Borbón, Duchess of Montpensier
- The duchess was 21 years old at the time of the portrait
- The setting is the terraces of the Palacio de San Telmo in Seville
- The Orléans family was exiled from France after the fall of the July Monarchy in 1848
- Seville became a gathering place for exiled royals, diplomats, writers, aristocrats, and artists
- The work is now presented at Colnaghi Madrid
Entities
Artists
- Joaquín Domínguez Bécquer
Institutions
- Colnaghi Madrid
- Orléans family
- Palacio de San Telmo
Locations
- Seville
- Spain
- Madrid
- France
- Guadalquivir