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Charles Clifford: Armor of King Philip III as a Child, Real Armería Madrid
Overview
A rare and museum-quality 19th-century large-format albumen silver print by the renowned court photographer Charles Clifford (British, 1819–1863). This photograph is part of Clifford's landmark series documenting the treasures of the Real Armería (Royal Armoury) in Madrid, commissioned under the patronage of Queen Isabella II of Spain.
Historical Significance
The subject is the exquisite parade armor of King Philip III of Spain (1578–1621), worn during his childhood (c. 1585). This specific suit is a masterpiece of Milanese craftsmanship, featuring intricate repoussé work and gold/silver damascening.
Provenance Note: The reverse of this print features a significant period manuscript inscription:
"Given to Philip 3rd when a child by the Duke of Terranova"
This refers to Carlo d'Aragona Tagliavia, the Duke of Terranova, a powerful Sicilian nobleman and diplomat who gifted this armor to the young prince—a detail that adds immense historical value and context to this specific print.
Item Details
Photographer: Charles Clifford (Official Photographer to the Spanish Crown).
Date: Circa 1858–1863.
Medium: Albumen silver print from a large-format glass plate negative.
Dimensions: Approximately 10" x 13" (Mammoth Plate).
Subject: Royal Child Armor of Philip III, Real Armería Inventory.
