Originally from the Patriarchal Palace of São Vicente de Fora in Lisbon, the portrait is a copy of a painting executed by Jean Ranc in 1729, in the context of marriage alliances between the Portuguese and Spanish royal families.
The original is believed to have been destroyed in the fire at the Royal Alcázar of Madrid in 1734 and is known through an engraving by Debrie. Carlos António Leoni's copy differs from the original composition, particularly in its colouring. The painting was formerly in the collection of the National Museum of Ancient Art.
Half-length portrait of King John V, shown in three-quarter view, wearing a breastplate and a brown velvet mantle in the French fashion. He wears a red silk sash and the insignia of the Order of Christ, set with diamonds. His attire is complemented by a belt with a diamond-set buckle and a turquoise cabochon, together with a lace collar and cuffs. The elaborate dress and insignia emphasise the sitter's royal status.