Manuel de Roda y Arrieta 1765

Pompeo Batoni painted this portrait of Manuel de Roda y Arrieta in the late 18th century, likely in Rome. Batoni was renowned for painting portraits of the European elite. The image, with its elaborate clothing, suggests the sitter's high social standing. Manuel de Roda was a prominent Spanish statesman during the reign of Charles III, a period marked by significant reforms and modernization efforts in Spain. We see him holding a letter, surrounded by writing implements – a clear indication of his administrative role. How does this image engage with the politics of imagery in the 1700s? Portraiture was not just about capturing a likeness; it was about constructing an image of power and authority. By looking at the specific historical context and consulting archives, scholars can offer a better understanding of this portrait and its role in shaping perceptions of the Spanish elite.