The artwork titled “Portrait of a Boy at the Spanish Court” was created by Sofonisba Anguissola in 1570. This Mannerist (Late Renaissance) portrait was executed using oil on canvas and is housed at the San Diego Museum of Art in San Diego, California, United States. The artwork belongs to the genre of portraiture and depicts a young boy dressed in elaborate attire.
The boy in the artwork dons an intricately designed green costume, complete with detailed patterning and gold embellishments. His attire includes a high-necked ruffled collar and a matching hat, suggesting his noble status at the Spanish court. He holds a staff, further signifying his position. The background is a muted dark tone, which contrasts with the boy’s fair complexion and elaborate clothing, thereby drawing the viewer’s attention to his expression and attire. The artist, Sofonisba Anguissola, successfully captures the delicate features and serene gaze of the youthful subject, exemplifying the refined portraiture characteristic of the Mannerism movement.