Maurice Mehanden (1878-?), After Diego Velázquez - Don Diego del Corral y Arellano

- Oil on canvas. Original canvas.

- An impeccable copy of one of the great court portraits by Diego Velázquez, created by a member of the Belgian diplomatic mission to Spain during World War I.

- The portrait of Don Diego del Corral y Arellano (c. 1631-1632), Velázquez’s masterpiece, captures the imposing figure of this jurist who served as an oidor of the Council of Castile and as a professor at Salamanca. The painting, which forms a pair with that of his wife, Doña Antonia de Ipeñarrieta, was painted shortly before Don Diego’s death in 1632 and is currently housed in the Prado Museum. Velázquez depicts the magistrate full-length and standing, using a neutral background that magnifies the imposing silhouette of the figure. The clothing is a broad and severe black robe, from which a white ruff peeks out, opening subtly to reveal the Cross of Santiago, indicating his belonging to this military order.

The technical mastery of Velázquez is evident in the sobriety of composition and the economy of means, which do not hinder an ostentation of virtuosity. The figure holds papers in his hands, a gesture that symbolises his judicial and intellectual work, while his grave, attentive face and measured judgment reflect the integrity and honesty for which he earned King Philip IV’s respect. The artist achieves a deep volumetric effect, contrasting the solemn black of the toga—achieved with broad glazes that create prismatic highlights—with the pale background, following the tradition of great masters like Titian. The painting is, in essence, a masterful synthesis of the sitter’s personality, social status, and moral strength.

- Image dimensions unframed: 84 x 58 cm / 96 x 72 cm with a magnificent early 20th-century neobaroque custom-made frame.

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The frame shown in the previous images has been added to the work by a third party or by the seller, so it is not an integral part of the object. This frame is provided at no additional cost so that, when the work arrives at your home, it can be displayed immediately on your wall. Accordingly, no damages to the frame that do not affect the integrity of the work will be accepted as a valid reason to open a claim or request a cancellation.

We invite you to bid with confidence on pieces from our gallery. Each work we offer is original, unique, and irreplaceable, selected with the utmost care and authenticity. Whether you are looking for a piece to enrich your personal collection or to add exceptional value to your space, Montbaron Gallery offers you a secure and transparent platform to bid easily and professionally. Art auctions are the perfect place to discover works that could become the heart of your collection. Here, you are not just acquiring art; you are investing in something that will grow in value over time, both aesthetically and culturally. Montbaron Gallery pieces not only reflect the talent of established artists but also have the power to transform spaces and enrich lives. Do not miss this opportunity to be part of something unique. Bidding on a Montbaron Gallery work is more than a transaction; it is an act of appreciation for art in its purest form. We invite you to bid with passion and join us on this exciting journey toward discovery and celebration of art. Your next favorite work is waiting for you!