Historical context
Maria Francisca Isabel of Savoy arrived in Portugal in 1666 to marry King Afonso VI. Following the annulment of their marriage, she married Pedro, the future King Pedro II, in 1668. The Queen was closely associated with the foundation of the Convent of the Francesinhas in Lisbon, where she was buried. The painting, originating from this convent, is a fragment of a religious panel.
Description
Portrait of Queen Maria Francisca Isabel of Savoy, depicted in three-quarter view, kneeling with her hands joined in prayer as an angel places a floral crown upon her head. She wears a blue and gold gown embellished with lace, pearls and precious stones, together with elaborate jewellery. In the background, to the left, two Franciscan friars hold candles.