Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

Who served as a court painter for King Charles IV?

1. Goya

2. Matisse

3. Durer

4. Rembrandt

The correct answer is: Goya

Francisco Goya was the court painter for King Charles IV of Spain, a position he held during a significant period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Goya's role as court painter allowed him to capture and immortalize the royal family's likeness in a series of portraits, contributing to his status as one of the most prominent Spanish artists of his time. His works from this period, including the famed "Family of Charles IV," not only depict the royal family but also reflect the political and social dynamics of Spain during his lifetime. The other artists mentioned did not hold such a position with King Charles IV. Henri Matisse, for instance, was a leading figure in modern art during the 20th century and is not associated with royal portraiture in this context. Albrecht Dürer was a prominent Northern Renaissance artist known for his engravings and detailed paintings, while Rembrandt van Rijn was a Dutch Baroque painter celebrated for his mastery of light and shadow but was not connected to Spanish royalty. Goya's unique exploration of both traditional and modern themes during his tenure as court painter further cements his legacy in art history.