Portrait of Carlos I of Portugal 1890

Jose Malhoa painted this portrait of Carlos I of Portugal in oils at an unknown date. The image presents us with a set of ideas and concepts that connect to the wider social and cultural context of Portugal at the turn of the century. Here, the image creates meaning through its visual codes of power. The inclusion of the crown, the royal cape, the golden throne, and the King's formal attire with its sash and medals presents the figure of Carlos I as one of authority. The portrait acts as a symbol of the monarchy during a period of political instability. Was this portrait trying to shore up the institution of the monarchy? To better understand art like this, historians often turn to primary source documents like letters or diaries, or study secondary sources like biographies and institutional records. Ultimately, the meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.