López Portaña, Vicente – Pedro de Alcántara Álvarez de Toledo y Salm Salm, XIII duque del Infantado Part 3 Prado Museum

The portrait presents a man in formal military attire, positioned against a landscape backdrop that suggests both grandeur and strategic overview. He stands with a confident posture, his gaze directed slightly off-center, conveying a sense of authority and perhaps contemplation. The lighting emphasizes the planes of his face, highlighting age lines and suggesting experience.
His clothing is meticulously rendered: a dark blue military jacket adorned with elaborate gold embroidery and multiple orders of chivalry across his chest. A white waistcoat and breeches are visible beneath the jacket, while high black boots complete the ensemble. A broad red sash encircles his waist, adding a vibrant contrast to the darker tones of his uniform. The details in the rendering of the fabric – the sheen of the buttons, the texture of the embroidery – demonstrate considerable technical skill.
Several objects are arranged at his feet, contributing to the narrative of the portrait. A partially unfurled map lies on a rocky outcrop, suggesting an interest in geography and military planning. Beside it rests a telescope, further reinforcing the idea of observation and strategic assessment. These items arent merely decorative; they function as symbolic props that elaborate upon the subject’s character.
The landscape behind him is painted with a deliberate sense of distance. Rolling hills fade into a hazy horizon under a dramatic sky filled with swirling clouds. This backdrop isn’t intended to be a specific location, but rather serves to evoke a feeling of vastness and dominion. The artist used atmospheric perspective to create depth, making the figure appear dominant against this expansive vista.
The overall impression is one of a man who holds significant power and responsibility. He appears not merely as an individual, but as a representative of authority – a leader engaged in matters of state or military command. The careful arrangement of objects and the deliberate use of landscape contribute to constructing a persona that blends personal dignity with public duty. There’s a quiet solemnity about him; he is presented as someone who carries the weight of his position, observing and planning for what lies ahead.