The artwork titled “Prince Baltasar Carlos with the Count Duke of Olivares at the Royal Mews” is a significant oil on canvas painting created by the Spanish artist Diego Velazquez, circa 1636. It belongs to the Baroque art movement and it is a portrait featuring dimensions of 144 x 96.5 cm. Currently, this notable piece resides within a private collection.
The artwork captures a majestic scene where Prince Baltasar Carlos, mounted on a horse, is depicted alongside the Count Duke of Olivares, who was an influential Spanish statesman during the time of the prince. The young prince, attired in lavish riding garments, sits astride a robust, dark horse that is richly adorned with ornate harness and decorations. The horse is positioned to the left of the composition, actively posing as if it has been slightly reared up, adding a dynamic element to the portrait.
In the background, we can observe a building that appears to be the Royal Mews, accentuated by a striking dome. The sky above is painted with a realistic variation of clouds, showing Velazquez’s command of atmospheric elements. To the right, the Count Duke of Olivares stands in conversation with other figures, suggesting a moment of interaction or negotiation. The artwork’s attention to detail, from the architecture and clothing to the expressions and posture of the figures, embodies the grandeur and formality typical of royal portraiture of the Baroque period. It simultaneously offers insight into the courtly life and the political milieu surrounding the Spanish monarchy of the 17th century.
