Artwork

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles, by Clemente Ruta, oil, 1741
La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles, by Clemente Ruta, oil, 1741

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Clemente Ruta. It dates from 1741 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Overview

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles is an oil painting by Clemente Ruta, dated to 1741, currently part of the collection at the Museo del Prado.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a baby, possibly allegorically depicted as a putto, in a state of quiet contemplation, gazing upwards. The subject's identity as Infanta Isabel is suggested, though the blurred facial features do not confirm this through likeness. Adornments such as a white cloth with gold trim, a white cap, and a blue leg ribbon signify noble birth.

Technique & Style

Ruta employs chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, focusing attention on the baby. The contrast between the dark background, accented with subtle gold elements, and the illuminated figure on a luxurious red and gold couch, underscores the subject's prominence and the overall theme of opulence.

History & Provenance

Created in 1741, the painting's early history is not detailed here, but it is known to be in the permanent collection of the Museo del Prado, indicating its recognition as a work of artistic and historical significance.

Context

The work reflects the Baroque and Rococo influences prevalent in 18th-century European art, particularly in the depiction of luxury and the use of chiaroscuro. The possible depiction of a royal infant connects it to the tradition of portraiture of nobility and royalty.

María Amalia de Habsburgo archiduquesa de Austria
María Amalia de Habsburgo archiduquesa de Austria, Johann Gottfried Auerbach

Artist & collection

Artist

Clemente Ruta

Clemente Ruta (1685–1767) was an artist, born in Parma.

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles?

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles was painted by Clemente Ruta in 1741.

Where can I see La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles?

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles is held by Museo del Prado.

What movement is La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles?

La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles?

Museum-quality prints of La infanta Isabel de Borbón y Sajonia princesa de Nápoles are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.