Portrait of Maria Luisa of Spain, Wife of Holy Roman Emperor Leopold II 1789

Jean-Étienne Liotard captured Maria Luisa of Spain in oil with a delicate touch. The portrait's composition is dominated by a symmetrical arrangement, lending a sense of formality, yet the softness of the pastel-like hues softens the overall effect. Look closely at the texture created by Liotard's brushstrokes; they give a tactile quality to the lace and jewels, contrasting with the smoothness of Maria Luisa's skin. The interplay of light and shadow across her face hints at the artist's interest in capturing not just likeness but also character. Consider the semiotic system at play here. The jewels, lace, and elaborate dress code are signs of status, but are also carefully placed to reflect broader artistic and philosophical concerns of representation and identity within the constraints of royal portraiture. The formal qualities of the artwork allow for a complex interpretation of power, beauty, and representation in the 18th century.