A Knight of Alcántara or Calatrava c. 1650 - 1655

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's "A Knight of Alcántara or Calatrava" is a portrait of a young man likely a member of a Spanish military order. The painting's realistic depiction of the man, clothed in elegant attire and holding a hat, reveals Murillo's mastery of capturing the individual's presence. The subject's composed demeanor and refined dress speak to his social standing and aristocratic lineage. The painting's rich textures and masterful use of light and shadow create a sense of depth and realism, characteristic of Murillo's style and the Spanish Baroque period.