According to the Museo del Prado, which published this photo: “He appears wearing the symbols of his royal condition, with a purple, ermine-lined robe, and a scepter with the coat of arms of Castile and Leon in his right hand. The sash of the Order of Carlos III crosses his chest, and he also bears the Golden Fleece… Pentimenti revealed by x-rays indicate changes to the figure, which could suggest that Goya made this portrait in presence of the King, himself, as the facial expression and distrustful gaze —despite the vacuous smile on his lips— are rendered with admirable mastery.”

Ferdinand VII, of Spain, known as “el Rey Felón.” His expression betrays his malice and cruelty. Plotted a coup against his own constitutional government, jailed writers and journalists. We also know a felon with absolutist tendencies.
#Felons #CrookedRulers
#MuseoDelPrado #Art
#Goya