Philip IV (1605–1665), King of Spain
1624
Velázquez captured the young King Philip IV here in his signature 'Habsburg black'—a somber, all-black outfit that was the height of Spanish fashion and projected serious power in the 17th century. Painted just after the artist arrived at court at age 24, this portrait established a lifelong partnership; the king was so pleased he made Velázquez his primary court painter and sat for him over 30 times. Notice the heavy gold chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece draped across his chest, a symbol of immense royal prestige contrasting with the stark, dark background and the crisp white ruff collar.