Answer the following question in 3-4 complete sentences. Name the above painting and its artist. What was the purpose of equestrian portraits in history?

Answer:

This portrait is by Diego Velazquez called Philip IV on Horseback. Equestrian portraits became common because it was believed that leaders looked especially powerful atop a large, powerful beast (horse). In addition, equestrian portraits were another way to show a leader’s control, prominence, provide focus toward the leader being painted, and helped minimize any unattractive features that might be seen in frontals and profiles.