Spanish school, 20th century

Spanish school, 20th century.
"The proclamation of the Catholic Monarchs".
Oil on canvas.
Measurements: 36 x 87 cm; 48 x 101 cm (frame).

The scene shows the proclamation or triumphal entry of the Catholic Monarchs (Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon). The monarchs can be identified in the center, under a canopy, surrounded by a retinue that includes nobles and knights with banners bearing the arms of Castile and Leon. The presence of ecclesiastical dignitaries with processional crosses can be observed, underlining the religious character of the reign. In the foreground and on the balconies, the crowd cheers the kings, which gives the work a great dynamism and sense of national celebration.
Although the subject is from the 15th century, the execution belongs to the 20th century. During this period, especially in the first half, there was a resurgence of interest in historical themes that sought to exalt Spanish identity, following in the wake of the great masters of the 19th century such as Francisco Pradilla or Casado del Alisal.