Home > Arts > Artists > G > Francois Pascal Simon Gerard
Gerard - Joseph Bonaparte, King of Spain N070585
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Gerard - Joseph Bonaparte, King of Spain N070585
APSLEY HOUSE, London. " Joseph Bonaparte, King of Spain" by Baron Francois-Pascal-Simon GERARD (1770-1837). WM 1630-1948. Painting captured by Wellington at Vitoria, 1813
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 1719917
© Historic England
French Monarchy Painting Spanish
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> Francois Gerard
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> Francois Pascal Simon Gerard
> Europe
> Spain
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Paintings
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Related Images
> Historic England
> Fame
> Napoleon Bonaparte
> Historic England
> Fine Art
> Apsley House paintings
> Historic England
> Fine Art
> Royal portraits
> Historic England
> Heritage
> English Stately Homes
> Apsley House
> Portraits at Apsley House
> Historic England
> Waterloo 200
> Peninsular War 200
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking portrait captures the enigmatic figure of Gerard-Joseph Bonaparte, who reigned as King of Spain from 1808 to 1813. The painting, executed by the renowned French artist Baron Francois-Pascal-Simon Gerard (1770-1837), was commissioned by the Spanish court during the brief period of Bonaparte's rule. Gerard, a brother of the infamous Napoleon Bonaparte, was appointed King of Spain by his brother in an attempt to secure Spanish support for the French invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. However, his reign was marked by resistance and rebellion, culminating in the decisive Battle of Vitoria in 1813, where the British and allied forces under the command of the Duke of Wellington defeated the French army. The painting was captured by Wellington's troops during the battle and later became part of the extensive art collection at Apsley House in London, the residence of the Duke of Wellington. The portrait presents Gerard in regal attire, with an air of confidence and authority. However, the subtle expression on his face suggests a hint of unease or uncertainty, perhaps reflecting the challenges he faced during his reign. The painting is a testament to the complex political dynamics of the time, as well as the artistic skill of Gerard's portraitist. It offers a glimpse into the history of the monarchy in Spain and France during the Napoleonic Wars, a period of great upheaval and change in European history.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.