Artwork
Charles III in Hunting Dress
Charles III in Hunting Dress is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Francisco Goya. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, completed in 1794 by the Spanish artist Francisco Goya, presents a portrait of King Charles III. The monarch is depicted in hunting attire, a common subject for royal portraits that combined formality with a sense of personal leisure. The work exemplifies the Rococo movement prevalent in late 18th-century European art and is now part of the collection at the Museo del Prado.
Subject & Meaning
Charles III is portrayed standing in a natural landscape, dressed for a hunt with a rifle in hand and a dog at his feet.
Charles III is portrayed standing in a natural landscape, dressed for a hunt with a rifle in hand and a dog at his feet. Despite the casual sporting context, the king prominently displays the insignia of several prestigious orders, including the Golden Fleece and the Order of Charles III. This combination of informal activity and formal regalia underscores his royal status even in moments of recreation.
Technique & Style
Goya utilized oil paint to render this full-length portrait, capturing the textures of the king's gray coat, blue and gold vest, and black hat. The background features rolling hills and mountains, providing a sense of depth and setting. The painting's aesthetic qualities, including its refined detail and the depiction of a noble subject in a somewhat idealized setting, align it with the prevailing Rococo style of the period.
History & Provenance
Created during Goya's active period as a court painter, this portrait is one of many commissions he received from the Spanish monarchy and aristocracy. As a significant work by one of Spain's most celebrated artists, it offers insight into the visual culture of the late 18th century. The painting has since become a part of the esteemed collection of the Museo del Prado in Madrid.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes (; Spanish: ; 30 March 1746 – 16 April 1828) was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.
