Josefa Coello de Portugal
1855. Oil.Not on display
In the mid-nineteenth century Federico de Madrazo produced some of the most successful portraits of the Spanish bourgeoisie during the reign of Isabel II (1833-68), presenting them with the opulence that their social status demanded. In addition to his remarkable artistic ability, his female portraits are outstanding for their depiction of the accessories and adornments. These details are emphasised with judicious touches of light, which convey the visual and tactile qualities of the textures and jewels that function to enhance the sitters.
Madrazo was celebrated for his portraits of the elite social classes, of which this is a good example in which he emphasises the tactile and visual qualities of the materials and jewels with particular skill. These elements function to highlight the personality of his sitter, who wears the sash of the Order of María Luisa.
