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:

The painting is *Equestrian Portrait of the Count-Duke of Olivares* by Diego Velázquez. Equestrian portraits were used to present rulers and other powerful people as authoritative and prestigious. They often emphasized the sitter’s military leadership and celebrated their status and power.