“Spain Conquered” is an illustration created in 1893 by the artist Walter Crane, associated with the Neo-Romanticism art movement. This artwork is part of the series “Columbia’s Courtship”. It depicts a striking and dramatic scene.
The artwork portrays a knight donned in resplendent armor standing dominantly over a native figure. The composition is rich with symbolism and historical references, with bright and vivid colors that embody the Neo-Romanticism style. The knight, likely embodying the force of Spain, wields a sword and carries a helmet with exaggerated feathers. The native figure, in a distressed pose, appears to be subdued under the knight’s power. The background features a bright yellow sun with a red lion, emblematic elements that add to the narrative of conquest. The artwork’s ornate border enhances its illustrative quality, capturing the viewer with its intricate detail and historical connotations. A panel to the left displays a poetic verse, further emphasizing the storyline of triumph and dominion. The artwork’s rich palette and illustrative detailing reflect Walter Crane’s mastery in capturing a complex historical narrative within a single frame.
