Artwork
Charles IV

Charles IV is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Agustín Esteve. It dates from 1795 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Agustín Esteve's 'Charles IV' is an oil painting created in 1795, currently part of the collection at the Museo del Prado.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a dignified figure with white hair, clad in a sumptuous red attire embellished with intricate silver embroidery and a distinctive blue sash adorned with a prominent brooch. These elements collectively imply a subject of high rank, potentially royalty.
Technique & Style
Esteve employs a stark contrast of colors, juxtaposing the vibrant red of the subject's clothing against a deep, dark black background. This chromatic choice, combined with meticulous attention to detail in the embroidery and brooch, serves to emphasize the subject's stature.
History & Provenance
Created in 1795, the painting has been part of the Museo del Prado's holdings, reflecting the institution's collection focus on works of Spanish and European significance.
Artist & collection















