10. King Carol II of Romania [1932]

Aurel Bordenache worked for the Royal House of Romania, creating numerous portraits of the personalities of the time. Similar works of the artist with this theme can be found in museums, such as the National Museum of Art of Romania or the National Museum of Romanian History: "King Mihai", "King Carol I of Romania" or "Ferdinand". The portrait of Carol II is a representative work for the interwar official art, characterized by realism and sobriety, where it is not just a simple artistic representation, but an instrument of affirmation of the royal authority. The work depicts Carol II in a realistic manner, specific to the academic style. The artist pays special attention to physiognomic details, accurately rendering the facial features and the expression of the character. The composition is balanced, the figure of the king being placed centrally, which underlines his importance and authority. Usually, such portraits present the sovereign in military uniform or in official dress, decorated with medals and symbols of power. Chromatically, the work uses sober tones, such as brown, black, dark red and golden highlights. These colors contribute to creating a solemn atmosphere and highlight the high status of the character. The background is simple, without elements that distract attention, thus emphasizing the central figure. Bordenache's artistic style is inscribed in academic realism, influenced by his Western studies. We do not find deformations or exaggerations, but an idealized, yet credible representation, intended to convey dignity and prestige. The theme of the work is related to the historical context of the interwar period, when royal portraits had the role of consolidating the image of monarchy. Being a painter of the Royal House, Aurel Bordenache created this work on order, contributing to the promotion of the official image of the king. Thus, the portrait becomes an instrument for representing authority and legitimacy of power.

References

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Dimensions

width 70 cm, height 90 cm

Description

oil on canvas, signed and dated lower right, in black, "A. Bordenache, 1932"

Research information

The artwork was part of the "Queen Marie at Brukenthal" exhibition, Art Safari in collaboration with the National Brukenthal Museum, Sibiu, May 9 - July 9, 2025.

Dating

1932

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