Artwork

Juan Bravo Murillo ministro de Comercio Instrucción y Obras Públicas

Juan Bravo Murillo ministro de Comercio Instrucción y Obras Públicas, by José Gutiérrez de la Vega, oil, 1848
Juan Bravo Murillo ministro de Comercio Instrucción y Obras Públicas, by José Gutiérrez de la Vega, oil, 1848

Juan Bravo Murillo ministro de Comercio Instrucción y Obras Públicas is an oil painting by José Gutiérrez de la Vega. It dates from 1848 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

Juan Bravo Murillo ministro de Comercio Instrucción y Obras Públicas is an 1848 oil painting by Spanish artist José Gutiérrez de la Vega, portraying the eponymous minister in a formal setting.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Juan Bravo Murillo, is depicted in attire indicating high rank, adorned with the Order of Charles III and a blue sash, symbolizing his ministerial position in Commerce, Instruction, and Public Works. The surrounding office supplies contextualize his role.

Technique & Style

The painting exemplifies traditional portraiture, characterized by meticulous attention to detail in the subject's clothing, accessories, and the meticulously rendered background elements, such as the statue, quill pen, and window.

History & Provenance

Completed in 1848, the painting is part of the Museo del Prado's collection, highlighting its significance within Spanish artistic and historical heritage.

Context

Created during a period of political and social change in Spain, the portrait reflects the formal, ceremonial aspect of mid-19th-century Spanish officialdom.

Legacy

While not widely known beyond Spanish art historical circles, the painting provides insight into the representation of political figures during the 19th century and the artistic traditions of José Gutiérrez de la Vega.

Artist & collection

Portrait of José Gutiérrez de la Vega

Artist

José Gutiérrez de la Vega

José Gutiérrez de la Vega y Bocanegra (26 December 1791 – December 1865) was a Spanish painter who specialized in portraits and religious subjects.

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.