Louis XVI on a Visit to Medellin (1990) by Fernando Botero

Louis XVI on a Visit to Medellin - Fernando Botero - 1990

Artwork Information

TitleLouis XVI on a Visit to Medellin
ArtistFernando Botero
Date1990
Art MovementNaïve Art (Primitivism)

About Louis XVI on a Visit to Medellin

The artwork entitled “Louis XVI on a Visit to Medellin” was created by the artist Fernando Botero in 1990. Falling under the category of Naïve Art, also known as Primitivism, this portrait is a representation that blends historical reference with a personal and regional touch.

The artwork portrays a character that seemingly represents Louis XVI, based on the title, but with the distinctive stylistic approach characteristic of Botero. The figure is depicted with exaggerated and rounded proportions, a style indicative of Botero’s signature technique that often plays with volume and form to convey a sense of weight and presence. The individual appears dressed in ornate, regal attire, including a blue cloak with star-like embellishments, a silver breastplate, and red shorts, all of which contribute to the grandeur Botero often infuses into his subjects.

The backdrop of an urban environment with terracotta rooftops adds an element of place to the composition, framing the central character and juxtaposing their historical attire with what could be a modern-day setting. To the right, a figure peeks from a doorway, adding a sense of curiosity and interaction with the scene. The cobblestone ground and the presence of a walking stick further suggest a narrative of travel or promenade, aligning with the portrayal of Louis XVI as visiting the city of Medellin. The use of vibrant colors and keen detail in the lavish costume reflects the painter’s attention to the intersection of the realistic and the whimsical.

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