Portret van Filips V van Spanje 1683 - 1725

Arnold van Westerhout made this print of Philip V of Spain, sometime between 1683 and 1725. The image communicates power through the familiar visual codes of portraiture. Philip's armor and ermine cloak signal his royal status and authority. This portrait was made in Italy at a time when powerful families commissioned portraits to legitimize their claims to authority and political power. But rather than being painted for aristocratic display, this image was mass-produced and sold on the street. This immediately opens up questions about its purpose. Was it to generate popular support for Philip’s claim to the Spanish throne? Or to capitalize on his notoriety? Understanding the social and institutional context requires careful research. Contemporary sources such as letters, newspapers, and political pamphlets would shed more light on the role this image played in shaping public opinion during a time of political upheaval. Only by considering such factors can we understand the true meaning of this portrait and the power of imagery.