Portrait of an Italian male member of the noble Imperiale / Imperiali family, likely Rinaldo Imperiale, Principe di Francavilla. The princely Imperiale family originated in Genoa and served the Spanish Crown under the Bourbons over several generations.
The sitter is depicted wearing the Order of the Golden Fleece around his neck; on his right breast is presumably the Order of Saint Januarius (San Gennaro). Both orders were conferred upon the Imperiali family as early as the 17th century and, from 1705, were awarded with the Grand Title of Spain, First Class. The uniform shown corresponds to that of a general in Spanish service.
With his left hand, the sitter gestures toward a helmet depicted in the background as a military attribute, while with his right hand he rests upon a steering wheel or shield.
In the background, an inscribed tablet bears a contemporary statement of offices and titles, reading in essence:
“Rinaldo (?) Imperiali, Principe di Francavilla, Generale di S. M. Cattolica, Consigliere di Stato, Ambasciatore di S. M. Regina.”
Oil on canvas.
Canvas size: 125.5 × 100 cm.
Profiled, partially gilded frame.
In need of restoration.
Dimensions:
Height: 137.0 cm | 53.94 in.
Width: 110.0 cm | 43.31 in.
Depth: 4.0 cm | 1.57 in.
