Portrait of Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy (1528–1580) Circle of Antonio Moro

Portrait of Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy (1528–1580) Circle of Antonio Moro (1520–1578)
Netherlandish School, 16th century
Oil on oak panel
Presented in a fine and wide Flemish frame in blackened wood, guilloché, with reversed profile Dimensions with frame: 72 × 65 cm. Panel alone: 42 × 35 cm

This beautiful portrait depicts Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy, Duke of Savoy and a major military and diplomatic figure of the 16th century. The work, attributed to the circle of the Flemish painter Antonio Moro, belongs to the tradition of the ceremonial portrait, characteristic of the Netherlandish school.
During his stay in England in 1555, Emmanuel-Philibert was portrayed full-length by Antonio Moro, then official painter to the court. This original portrait, now preserved in the British Royal Collections, likely served as a model for reduced versions produced by the master’s workshop. These replicas, such as the one presented here, were intended to be offered to relatives or used as diplomatic gifts, testifying to the prestige and network of influence of the Duke.
The elegance of the armor, the refinement of the face, and the sobriety of the background all emphasize the noble stature and dignity of the sitter, while illustrating the pictorial sophistication of Flemish Renaissance workshops.

This type of portrait, both emblematic and rare, appears very seldom on the art market.

Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy (1528–1580)
Born in Chambéry in 1528, son of Duke Charles III of Savoy and Beatrice of Portugal.
Nicknamed “Iron Head” for his military rigor.
After the French occupation of Savoy, he entered the service of Charles V and became governor of the Spanish Netherlands.
Won the Battle of Saint-Quentin in 1557, earning great renown.
Duke of Savoy from 1553 to 1580, he restored his house’s authority and gave Savoy back a strategic role in Europe.
Husband of Margaret of France (sister of Henry II), consolidating his alliances through marriage.

Antonio Moro (c. 1520–1576/78)
Born in Utrecht, trained under the painter Jan van Scorel.
Also known as Anthonis Mor or Van Dashorst.
Became one of the greatest portraitists of the 16th-century Netherlands.
Protégé of Cardinal Granvelle, introduced into imperial and royal circles.
Painted portraits of Philip II of Spain, Mary Tudor of England, the Duke of Alba, and numerous political and religious figures of his time.
His international career (Spain, Portugal, England, Netherlands) illustrates the importance of portraiture as a diplomatic and political tool.

Good state of preservation. Sold with certificate.