Who painted Don Luis de Requesens?

Don Luis de Requesens was painted by Unknown 19th Century in 1850.

Where can I see Don Luis de Requesens?

Don Luis de Requesens is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Don Luis de Requesens?

Don Luis de Requesens is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Don Luis de Requesens

Unknown 19th Century , 1850

Don Luis de Requesens is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The work is an engraved portrait of Don Luis de Requesens, rendered as a print. The image presents the subject with a solemn demeanor, dressed in attire characteristic of an earlier historical period. The composition focuses tightly on the figure, emphasizing facial features and clothing.

Subject & Meaning

Don Luis de Requesens, a notable figure of his era, is depicted with a serious expression that conveys authority and gravitas. The choice of traditional dress reinforces his social status and the formal nature of the portrait, suggesting a purpose of commemoration or official representation.

Technique & Style

Executed entirely with line engraving, the print relies on a dense network of incised strokes to model form and suggest texture. Fine hatching creates subtle tonal variations, while cross‑hatching adds depth to the fabric and facial planes. This meticulous line work is typical of the medium’s capacity for precise detail.

History & Provenance

The engraving originates from a period when portrait prints served both documentary and decorative functions. While specific dates of creation and ownership are not provided, such works were often circulated among patrons and collectors to disseminate the likeness of prominent individuals.

Context

Portrait engravings like this one were common in the early modern European art market, providing a reproducible means of recording elite identities. The emphasis on accurate rendering aligns with contemporary expectations for realism in printed portraiture, contrasting with more stylized painted conventions.