"Manuel Benedito Vives" Portrait of the 17th Duke of Alba returns to the Monterrey Palace

Salamanca, May 1, 2024 — The Monterrey Palace is pleased to announce the return of the portrait of the 17th Duke of Alba, Don Jacobo Fitz-James Stuart, painted by renowned artist Manuel Benedito Vives. The work has returned to its place of origin in the Santa Teresa Hall of the Monterrey Palace after being loaned for a traveling exhibition that began at the Palacio de Liria, Madrid.

The portrait of the 17th Duke of Alba, made by Manuel Benedito Vives, is a majestic and detailed representation of Don Jacobo Fitz-James Stuart dressed in an academic uniform. He was elected full member of the Royal Academy of History in 1918 and director of the Royal Academy in 1927 until his death. In addition, he joined the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in 1924 and in 1943 in the RAE with his speech “Illustrious Patronage”. The costume is decorated with some of the Duke's decorations, including the Order of the Golden Fleece; Necklace and Grand Cross of the Royal and Distinguished Order of Charles III; the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order of England and the badge as Knight of the Order of Calatrava.

We also observed a nod to his position as ambassador in the representation of the bicorn with white feathers and white leather gloves on the right, and in the sprat located on the left side of his waist.