Don Gaspde Guzman, Count of Olivares and Duke of San Lucla Mayor 1627

Diego Velázquez created this portrait in oil paint, a traditional medium with a rich history. Velázquez's command of the medium, which he deploys here with astounding dexterity, is the first thing to note. Observe how the artist uses thin glazes of pigment to build up the subtle gradations of light and shadow on the Count's face, contrasting with the heavier impasto of the gold embroidery. Think of the labor involved in grinding and mixing these pigments, stretching the canvas, and applying each layer of paint with meticulous care. More broadly, this painting captures a pivotal moment in the history of making, as the craft traditions of painting were increasingly shaped by the demands of the art market and the rise of individual genius. This portrait embodies that shift, revealing the complex relationship between materials, skill, and social status in the world of Early Modern art. By focusing on the making of the work, we can better understand its cultural significance.