Artwork
Don Pedro I de Castilla consulta su horóscopo a un moro sabio de Granada llamado Ben-Agatim
Don Pedro I de Castilla consulta su horóscopo a un moro sabio de Granada llamado Ben-Agatim is an oil painting by Federico González y Tave. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Federico González y Tave’s 1864 oil on canvas presents a nocturnal interior where a Castilian monarch consults a learned Moor. The composition centers on a wooden table strewn with a skull, a bottle and an hourglass, while the two figures dominate the cramped space.
Subject & Meaning
The seated figure, dressed in a red and green military uniform with a feathered hat, is identified as Don Pedro I of Castile, his posture slumped and sword in hand, suggesting fatigue or contemplation. Opposite him stands a Moorish scholar, robed in white and turbaned, gesturing toward a paper, implying a discourse on fate or destiny, reinforced by the memento mori symbols.
Technique & Style
The painting employs pronounced chiaroscuro, with a single, strong light source illuminating the table and the faces of the protagonists, while the surrounding darkness recedes. This contrast heightens the drama and draws attention to the objects that symbolize the passage of time and mortality.
History & Provenance
Created in 1864, the work entered the collection of the Museo del Prado, where it remains on display. Its provenance traces directly from the artist’s studio to the national museum, reflecting its acceptance into Spain’s official artistic heritage.
Context
The scene reflects 19th‑century Spanish interest in historical and moral narratives, portraying a moment when a Christian king seeks counsel from a Muslim intellectual. The inclusion of the skull and hourglass aligns with contemporary allegorical traditions warning of the transience of power.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Federico González y Tave (1823–1867) was an artist, born in Cádiz Province.
The Alchemist
Ludwig der Bayer verkündet Friedrich dem Schönen 1314 seine Freilassung und bietet ihm die Mitregentschaft an
Faust und Mephisto in der Studierstube
The Geographer
The Antiquary
The alchimist
Mephisto Appears to Faust
Macbeth instructing the murderers employed to kill Banquo
Domestic Scenery
Charlemagne reprimands the neglectful students
The Alchemist
King Christian II in Prison