Allegory on Emperor Charles as Ruler of Vast Realms
by RUBENS, Peter Paul, Oil on canvas, 167 x 141 cm
While Rubens was court painter to Duke Vincenzo Gonzaga, he was sent on a diplomatic mission to Spain in 1603-1604. Shortly after his return from Spain to Italy, he executed this portrait of the emperor, which he modelled on a painting by Parmigianino in the ducal collection.