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The Suppliants: Expulsion of the Gypsies from Spain

This painting depicts an episode in history where a monarch failed to protect his subjects. Philip III of Spain was believed to have been a weak ruler. In 1619, under the influence of Cardinal Gonzales, the King issued a decree commanding that all gypsies leave the country or establish settled residence and abandon their language and customs. In this retelling of the incident it is the Queen, observing the scene from the corridor, who will save the gypsies through her ‘compassionate intervention’.

In contrast to her husband, Queen Margaret was considered a just and honest ruler. She was also a devoted wife and mother. The Victorians’ focus on her role in this incident reflects contemporary att...

1872
Oil on canvas
182.8 x 286.9cm
THC0038

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