Portrait of the Marquis of Vega-Inclán

Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida (1863-1923)

• CE00044
• 1910
• Oil on canvas

Another painting which we consider essential is undoubtedly the portrait that Joaquin Sorolla gave to don Benigno de la Vega-Inclán and Flaquer, 2nd Marquis of Vega-Inclán.

In the upper left part of the canvas, the following legend can be read: "A Benigno Vega for his Museum of Toledo. J. Sorolla y Bastida 1910 ".

Sorolla made the portrait of his friend in an innovative landscape format, influenced by the photography he learned through his father-in-law, Antonio García Peris. He places the figure in the foreground, on a neutral background, using a small and direct brushstroke with the intention of connecting with the portraits of El Greco. He painted it to be exhibited in the Museo del Greco, he himself being part of the Board of Trustees.

In addition to being a patron and promoter of innovative cultural projects, the Marquis was also an active art dealer, especially regarding works of El Greco. Sorolla painted portraits of Don Benigno on several occasions, on this work he represents the Marquis at the age of fifty-two.Salto de línea