Dive into Las Meninas!

What’s so cool about this painting? Why is everyone freaking out over it? Ready for a quick art adventure? Let's explore Diego Velázquez's intriguing painting, "Las Meninas." Buckle up, it's going to be fun!

October 02, 2024

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Royal Attendants (marked red)

In the center, meet little Princess Margarita. She's decked out in a fancy palace gown with red and black flowers. It looks pretty tough to play in! Surrounding her, you can see her attendants, the maids of honor (Las Meninas), palace dwarfs, and even the tired palace dog.

Look up, and you’ll notice the grand, art-filled rooms. By the door, the chamberlain seems to invite us to explore more rooms!

Are We the King and Queen? (marked blue)

Above Princess Margarita’s head is a mirror reflecting the King and Queen. Surprise – they were standing right where we are now! Velázquez cleverly includes them (and us!) in the painting.

The Painter Painting Himself Painting Himself (marked green)

Look to the left, and you'll see Velázquez himself, probably painting this very scene! He’s holding a palette and brushes, capturing this moment. Velázquez was the official court painter for King Philip IV and Queen Mariana. Since he himself is an integral part of the palace staff, the service providers of the king and queen, he also draws himself in the painting.

Did he use a huge mirror to add his self portrait to the painting?

Fun Fact

On Velázquez’s chest, there's a red knight's cross. He was awarded this honor three years after finishing the painting and was added to the painting only after his death! (in 1660). So how did it get there? Some say the King himself added it!

Think About It 🤔 

Velázquez makes us ponder as he places us in front of a mirror reflecting Spanish royalty. Suddenly, we're thinking about the painting's theme rather than just the princess and her attire. We start thinking about what’s happening out side of the picture’s frame, And that is the genius of Velázquez.

How does it relate to the here and now? or What to say during casual conversation to show off your art knowledge?

Social media influencers - “I just read about the painting Las Meninas and Velázquez painted himself into 'Las Meninas, essentially making a cameo in his own work. It's similiar to the way influencers today include themselves in their content to build a personal brand. Velázquez was ahead of his time, showing that the artist's presence can add a layer of intrigue and personal connection to the artwork.”

Diverse social representation - “I saw this painting, Las Meninas, and it’s amazing how Velázquez included members of different social statuses – the princess, her attendants, dwarfs, and even a dog. This can be compared to our discussions today about diversity and inclusion. Velázquez’s work subtly reflects the complex social structure of his time, much like how modern media strives to represent diverse voices and perspectives."

Now have another Look!

And If You’re Up for More…

  1. After enjoying this masterpiece, visit the Velázquez Tech Museum – a small, friendly museum in Madrid.

  2. Picasso created his own version of this masterpiece, which you can see at the Picasso Museum in Barcelona.

Enjoy the art adventure!

Cheers, Inbal Z M

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