The artwork titled “Charles III” is an oil painting by the esteemed artist Francisco Goya, created during the period of 1786 to 1788. This portrait is an embodiment of the Romanticism art movement and measures 210 by 127 centimeters. It is a portrait genre painting currently housed at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with a full-length portrait of Charles III. The figure is adorned in a hunting attire, consisting of a dark coat with gold embellishments, a waistcoat, and knee breeches, all aligned with the fashion of the era. The subject wears a tricorne hat, which adds to his regal demeanor. In his right hand, he firmly grasps a hunting rifle, while his left hand is elegantly gloved and rests lightly on his hip. The expression of the subject is poised yet approachable, with a slight smile that conveys a sense of benevolence.
The background reveals a pastoral landscape, hinting at the subject’s proximity to nature and his interest in hunting. The open sky and distant mountains further accentuate the grandeur of the setting. A hunting dog lies obediently at his feet, its presence underscoring the sportsman theme of the portrait. The earthy tones throughout the painting are characteristic of Goya’s work during this time, showcasing his skillful use of color to evoke the aristocratic status of his subject while simultaneously giving the portrait a sense of warmth and life.
