Joli, Antonio – Partida de Carlos de Borbón a España, vista desde el mar Part 1 Prado museum

The canvas presents a panoramic view of a bustling harbor scene, observed from a maritime perspective. A substantial fleet dominates the foreground, its numerous vessels densely packed and arrayed across the waters surface. Each ship is distinguishable by its individual flag, creating a vibrant tapestry of color against the muted tones of the sea and sky. The flags appear to be predominantly white with red accents, suggesting a unified command or allegiance.
The harbor itself is framed by an imposing cityscape that rises from the coastline. A fortified citadel sits prominently atop a rocky promontory, its architecture indicative of a strategic military position. Buildings cluster around the base of the fortifications, forming a densely populated urban area. The artist has rendered the city with meticulous detail, capturing the texture and character of its structures.
The sky occupies the upper portion of the composition, exhibiting a pale blue hue punctuated by scattered clouds. This atmospheric backdrop contributes to the overall sense of scale and depth within the painting. A distant landmass is visible on the left side of the frame, adding further context to the geographical setting.
Beyond the immediate depiction of naval activity and urban landscape, the work conveys subtle undertones related to power and departure. The sheer size and organization of the fleet suggest a significant undertaking – perhaps a military expedition or a royal procession. The act of leaving, implied by the title, introduces an element of transition and potential uncertainty. The viewer is positioned as an observer, witnessing a moment of farewell and anticipating what lies beyond the horizon.
The composition’s perspective, looking outward from the harbor, reinforces this sense of departure and suggests a focus on the destination rather than the origin. The meticulous rendering of details – the flags, the fortifications, the cityscape – indicates a desire to document an event of historical importance, imbuing the scene with a formal and official character.