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Artwork

Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony

Giuseppe Bonito , 1744

Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony, by Giuseppe Bonito, oil, 1744
Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony, by Giuseppe Bonito, oil, 1744

Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Giuseppe Bonito. It dates from 1744 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Queen Maria Amalia of Saxony is an 1744 oil painting by Giuseppe Bonito, a Neapolitan Rococo artist. The work depicts the queen in opulent attire, emphasizing her wealth and status, and is housed in the Museo del Prado collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Queen Maria Amalia, is portrayed holding a golden crown, symbolizing her royal authority. Her elaborate 18th-century attire, including a pale gray dress with silver embroidery, red underskirt, pearl necklace, and earrings, underscores her high social standing. A small headpiece secures her pulled-back hair.

Technique & Style

Bonito employs chiaroscuro, using a dark background to make the queen's figure prominent. The strategic play of light on her face and garments creates a sense of richness and detail, characteristic of the Rococo period's emphasis on luxury and refinement.

History & Provenance

Created in 1744, the painting is part of the Museo del Prado's collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

While Bonito is known for genre paintings, this work aligns with the Rococo's royal portraiture tradition, focusing on the display of wealth and status prevalent among European monarchs in the 18th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giuseppe Bonito

Artist

Giuseppe Bonito

Giuseppe Bonito (11 January 1707 – 9 May 1789) was a Neapolitan painter of the Rococo period. Giuseppe Bonito is known for genre depictions on canvas. Many of Gaspare Traversi's paintings had previously been attributed to Bonito.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Museo del Prado. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.