1802 Portrait of Don Jose Queralto Francisco Jose De Goya y Lucientes (1746-1828)

The portrait presents a man in formal attire against a dark, indistinct background. He is positioned centrally within the frame, facing forward with a direct gaze towards the viewer. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, leaving the rest of his body largely in shadow.
Here we see a gentleman of apparent status; his clothing suggests military or official rank. A red coat, adorned with gold braiding and epaulettes, is paired with a crisp white shirt and a high-collared cravat. The meticulous rendering of the fabric’s texture indicates an attention to detail characteristic of formal portraiture. His powdered wig, a common fashion element of the period, contributes to his dignified appearance.
The man holds a document or sheet of paper in his hands, positioned low near his waist. This gesture is significant; it implies responsibility and engagement with official duties. The paper’s presence could also be interpreted as a symbol of knowledge, law, or perhaps even a personal declaration.
His expression is somewhat ambiguous – a subtle smile plays on his lips, but the eyes convey a sense of seriousness and perhaps a touch of weariness. This nuanced portrayal avoids simple categorization; it suggests an individual with complexity beyond mere outward presentation. The artist has captured not just a likeness, but also a suggestion of character.
The dark background serves to isolate the subject, drawing attention solely to him and reinforcing his importance. It creates a sense of depth and mystery, hinting at a life lived beyond what is immediately visible in this single moment. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet authority.