Which artist served as court painter during the reign of Felipe IV?

Which artist served as court painter during the reign of Felipe IV?

• A. Diego Velázquez
• B. Sandro Botticelli
• C. Johannes Vermeer
• D. Raphael Sanzio

Answer: (A)

Diego Velázquez served as court painter to Felipe IV, the King of Spain. This role, known as pintor de cámara or court painter, meant he was the official artist for the royal family, painting the king, the queen, and scenes from court life. Velázquez began his service at the Spanish court in the early 1620s and continued to receive royal commissions, which helped him shape Spanish painting during the 17th century and document the life of the court through portraits and grand scenes. The other artists listed come from different times and places: Botticelli was a Florentine Renaissance painter; Vermeer was a Dutch Golden Age artist; Raphael was an earlier Italian master. Velázquez’s position at the court of Felipe IV is what makes him the correct answer.

Diego Velázquez served as court painter to Felipe IV, the King of Spain. This role, known as pintor de cámara or court painter, meant he was the official artist for the royal family, painting the king, the queen, and scenes from court life. Velázquez began his service at the Spanish court in the early 1620s and continued to receive royal commissions, which helped him shape Spanish painting during the 17th century and document the life of the court through portraits and grand scenes. The other artists listed come from different times and places: Botticelli was a Florentine Renaissance painter; Vermeer was a Dutch Golden Age artist; Raphael was an earlier Italian master. Velázquez’s position at the court of Felipe IV is what makes him the correct answer.