Artwork
La Emperatriz Marta de Constantinopla ante Alfonso X el Sabio. óleo sobre lienzo
La Emperatriz Marta de Constantinopla ante Alfonso X el Sabio. óleo sobre lienzo is a photography by https://hispana.mcu.es/lod/oai:larramendi.es:7432#ent3. It is held in the collection of the Ignacio Larramendi Foundation.
About this work
Overview
A regal male figure in a crimson robe occupies a raised dais, holding a scroll, while a kneeling woman in blue and gold garments presents herself before him.
The oil painting titled *La Emperatriz Marta de Constantinopla ante Alfonso X el Sabio* portrays a formal audience in a richly appointed interior. A regal male figure in a crimson robe occupies a raised dais, holding a scroll, while a kneeling woman in blue and gold garments presents herself before him. Attendants in period dress form a semi‑circular crowd, and a monumental architectural backdrop with columns frames the scene.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts the legendary encounter between Empress Marta of Constantinople and King Alfonso X of Castile, known as “the Wise.” The kneeling posture of the empress and her offering gesture suggest a diplomatic petition or tribute, while the king’s attentive pose implies deliberation or judgment. The composition emphasizes the hierarchical relationship between the two sovereigns and the ceremonial nature of their meeting.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil on canvas, the painting employs pronounced chiaroscuro, with illuminated faces and drapery set against a darker, recessed background. The contrast heightens the three‑dimensionality of the figures and directs focus to the central interaction. Detailed rendering of textiles and architectural elements reflects a meticulous, academic approach typical of late‑19th‑century historic genre painting.
History & Provenance
The canvas was created as a visual record of a historical narrative linking the Byzantine and Castilian courts, likely commissioned for a public or private collection interested in medieval themes. Its provenance traces through Spanish institutional holdings, though specific acquisition dates and previous owners remain undocumented in the available sources.
Artist & collection
Enthaltsamkeit des Scipio
Continence of Scipio
The Continence of Scipio
The Continence of Scipio
Cornelia rejects the crown of the Ptolemies
Queen of Sheba before Solomon
The Patron Saints of the Crotta Family
Queen Zenobia before the Emperor Aurelian
Hector Calling Up Paris to a Battle
The Sacrifice of Polyxena in Malibu
Alexander the Great and Roxana
The Empress Marta de Constantinople before Alfonso X. Ramón Bayeu and Subías